"Come Unto Me"

After several years in the planning and development, last year we dedicated the Columbarium at our church, First Baptist in Shreveport, LA.

A Columbarium is an area that contains structures of vaults for cinerary urns.  Dick and I were thrilled with this means of handling our remains after death.

This area is named for the family who provided the funds, The Woods Memorial Garden

Yesterday, we dedicated a beautiful bronze statue which was placed in the center of the garden.

The funds for this statue were given by a family in our church and friends of the sculptor.

Titled "Come Unto Me", the sculpture was created by nationally recognized sculptor, Rosalind Cook.  You can read more about her HERE.

Rosalind was in our service to be part of the dedication and gave her testimony.  She explained the meaning behind this particular sculpture and why she named it "Come Unto Me."

Jesus's arms are always open to receive us and we can find rest in those arms of love.

We, like this little one can find comfort, rest, and strength as we lay all our cares and concerns on Him

All we have to do is seek Him and He will receive us and hold us.  I love the sweet hand of the little girl resting confidently on the lap of Jesus, knowing she can trust Him.

To me, the eagerness and openness of this sweet child is exemplified by the tip-toes and outstretched hand.

And this is why she is so trusting and willing to be vulnerable.  The strong hand of Jesus is holding her securely and supporting her from losing her balance.  We often forget about that hand keeping us from falling, don't we.

Rosaland explained that Jesus has His eye on the child who seeks Him and is happy and ready to receive that one.  I love the sweet, tender, compelling expression on his face.

There is such great detail in this work of art.

Rosalind Cook has other commissioned works all over the world including the Vatican in Rome.  Other locations include the headquarters of World Vision in Washington, Compassion International in Colorado Springs, Cancer Treatment Centers of America, and the US Open 2001.  Her works are also in hospitals, churches, museums, and parks throughout the US.

We are so grateful to have this beautiful place not only as a quiet garden in which to meditate but as a final resting place for us and many others in our church.

"As I sculpted this seven-foot figure of Jesus, I endeavored to project his compassion, his strength, and his great love for us as children of God. I love the fact that Jesus is giving his full attention to the young girl reaching up to him either with her needs or in adoration and gratitude. He meets us on an individual basis no matter where we are in life. The other child is sleeping with secure confidence in his arms."

Rosalind Cook