I am a writer who arranges words for a living, and along the way, I’ve been privileged to work with notable photographers and artists. Who model simply do your best. Just this past week, I wrote a magazine article on celebrated artist, painter, and sculptor Thomas Blackshear II. I love the story about his print (at left) and the venerable Mother Teresa.
When one of Thomas’ friends was traveling to Kolkata back in the 1990s, he personally gave a Forgiven print to Mother Teresa. The humble humanitarian asked if she could place the print in her home for the dying. Years later, Thomas learned that during her final days, Mother Teresa actually had the Forgiven print hanging in her own sparse bedroom. With once glance, she was reminded of Jesus carrying her even if her own sins were responsible with the rest of us for nailing the Savior to the cross.
You Never Know What Impact You Will Have
A few years after Mother Teresa passed, the U.S. Postal Service commissioned Thomas to paint this image of her for a stamp to commemorate her 100th birthday. I just love the gregarious, free-spirited look that Thomas captured.
You never know what kind of impact your work will have on someone else. Whether you work with widgets in a bustling factory or behind a microscope all day or save lives in the ER or serve the public in a restaurant. Whether you raise crops or raise a dozen adopted kids. Or repair cars or repair computer systems. Your work matters. Every bolt-tightening, scoop-dipping, baby bottom-wiping moment.
“And don’t just do the minimum that will get you by. Do your best. Work from the heart for your real Master, for God . . ..” Colossians 3:23 (The Message).
Do your best. Work from your heart. You just never know how what you do today may end up comforting and encouraging even the greats like Mother Teresa.
Beautiful, Beth. I didn’t know about Thomas and the Mother Teresa image. Wow!
Thank you, Nancy. I didn’t know this story either until Thomas and I chatted. He has quite a portfolio of artwork and stories of how God has used his work.
Lovely piece, Beth.
Thank you, Julie. Do you know Thomas? If not, I’d be glad to connect you two. He’s local.
As I’ve witnessed your work doing over and again: stirring readers, moving people into a deeper life. Love this–and you and your work, dear Beth. Blessings on you.
~ JT
Thank you, dear Jeanette. You are always an incredible encourager in my life and someone who also stirs readers and moves us all into a deeper life. Love and hugs!
This is so true and such a great reminder! Thanks dear friend for writing this!
Thank you, Terry. You just never know how even the littlest of things can make a difference in someone’s life.