Doing Your Part

“The one who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and the one who receives a righteous person because he is a righteous person will receive a righteous person’s reward.” Matthew 10:41 ESV

Monet. Pissarro. Renoir. Artists known worldwide. But few know that their work would not have been possible without innovations developed by John Rand. In fact, this little-known American portrait painter changed history.

It all began in 1841 when Rand was living in London. Like many other artists, he was frustrated because the oil used in painting consistently dried too quickly. Struggling with this problem, Rand developed a unique solution: the paint tube.

Made from tin and sealed with a screw cap, these tubes made it easy to transport paints. Because they could be opened and closed easily, they enabled paint to be portable.

The impact was dramatic. Suddenly, artists felt liberated. Freed from the confinement of a studio, they could paint in places like beaches and mountains. Isolated islands and at sea. Anywhere. This made possible a whole new approach to art, and some of history’s great paintings.

Rand’s invention also made possible the use of new colors. Describing the impact, Pierre-Auguste Renoir once said, “Without colors in tubes, there would be no Cézanne, no Monet, no Pissarro, and no Impressionism.”

Like John Rand, many people throughout history have contributed in important ways, but largely have been forgotten, or overlooked. These patterns also take place in the Christian world, but with one difference: God knows the truth!

Others may receive the limelight, and get attention. But He knows who has been faithful. Who have fulfilled their role within the Body of Christ.

In your life, seek to be faithful with what God calls you to do. Don’t worry about getting attention. Remember that God knows what you have done. He will reward you, if you are faithful and please Him.

Prayer: Father, help me to know clearly Your calling for my life. I commit my time, talent, and treasure to You. Help me to serve You faithfully. In Jesus’ name. Amen.