Winslow Homer (1836-1910) is considered to be the foremost American painter of the 19^th century. He worked in oil, watercolor and printmaking. He painted the outdoor landscape and most often marine scenes in realism and impressionism styles. His work is displayed at the Met, the National Gallery and other prominent venues.

I am taken by The Life Line in the context of this current most deadly wave of the coronavirus pandemic. If only our role in fighting this virus could seem this heroic. Each of us can be just such a lifeline to the people around us. We can help to save our family members, our friends, neighbors and strangers, essential workers, healthcare providers. But instead of grabbing a line and throwing ourselves into a violent storm at sea, we rescue others by wearing a mask, washing our hands, avoiding indoor spaces, keeping our distance. Following these practices during days of an invisible harm, days that can seem calm and unthreatening, is our remote challenge. Maybe this masterwork can be our prayer and fuel our diligence. As we follow the CDC guidelines through more months ahead may we claim this scene as an image of God’s command to love one another. The lives of others are not hanging with us over a raging sea, or are they? 

In hope and faith,

Sandy Prouty

Minister of Children and Families

Montview Church