On the Easel: Sneak Peek of painting of Phebe, in progress

Detail of Phebe's hand

 The Apostle Paul’s praise of the disciple Phebe (found in Romans 16:1-2) inspired Elspeth to begin creating a painting of this noble  “servant of the church” whom Paul extolled as a “succourer of many, and of myself also.” The detail images, right and below, give a quick glimpse of some small portions of costuming and Phebe's hand, blocked-in and ready for layers of scumbling and color glazing.

Detail of Phebe's wrap

The verb “succor” has been used throughout both ancient and modern-day scripture to denote Christ-like compassion and active selfless service in behalf of those in special need.  Elspeth is two-thirds finished with her oil painting depicting Phebe in the act of tenderly comforting a bereaved young woman.  

The artwork will seek to represent all who strive to “stand as witnesses of God” by being “willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort”—to “succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees” (see Mosiah 18:9 and D&C 81:5).  In other words, it is a painting echoing the timeless words of Jude:  "And of some have compassion, making a difference" (Jude 1:22).