Mosaic Discipleship

I was praying for fresh insight as our group trip to Israel approached. The Doctor of Ministry cohort, Biblical Interpretation and Culture track, would be embarking on an archeological excursion focusing on the land, regions, and sites of Israel. We would be joined by a few wives (mine included) who were willing to put up with a group of Bible and history nerds for nearly two weeks. As my wife and I packed our bags before the flights, my prayers focused on a site, feature, or archeological facet that would speak to me and enrich my ministry context once returning home. I longed for that one thing defining my experience in the land of Israel. So, I prayed fervently.


Off to the Pittsburgh airport Amanda and I went. Everything proceeded smoothly; before long, we boarded our plane and departed for New York. The layover there was quick, with minimal issues. We hopped on our last flight destined for Tel Aviv, Israel, and I said one last prayer, “God, please provide that one thing.” The airplane lifted off the runway, and now everything was in God’s hands. The trip preparations were done. Pre-assigned work was completed. Absurd amounts of snacks were packed to prevent my wife from getting “hangry.” My only responsibility now was to show up, invest wherever God took us, and wait patiently for that new, fresh insight.


We landed at Ben Gurion airport and were greeted by our teacher, Dr. David deSilva. He escorted us to the van, where our adventure began! Over the next several days, our group planned to visit sites in Galilee, Samaria, the Judean wilderness, and conclude by immersing in Jerusalem. Site after site, we explored walls, city layouts, synagogues, artwork, and architecture, and brought stones and dirt to life by retelling the history that informed these digs and parks. The importance of context took on new meaning as each stone had a story to tell. But as the trip began to wind down, I realized God did provide that one insight or archeological feature that would speak to me and serve my ministry context; mosaic floors.


Mosaics are images, designs, and patterns crafted onto a flat surface with colorful stones, pebbles, shells, or other hard materials available. These stones measured anywhere between 0.5cm and 1.5cm, while finer details required stones as little as 1mm (Cartwright 2019). The artist would be commissioned to create a piece and began by laying a smooth layer of mortar to even the flooring surface. This was a crucial step and ensured the mosaic laid as smoothly as possible over time. Once the mortar was applied, the artist would likely outline his design onto the newly clean, flat surface. This helped to keep him on track and provided a natural stopping point where work could easily cease and resume without wasting additional time (The Ancient Home, 2017). Tesserae, or small pieces of stone, were then “positioned as close together as possible with any gaps then filled with liquid mortar in a process known as grouting. This made the surface waterproof and especially useful for humid places like Roman baths” (Cartwright, 2019).


Creating a mosaic was a time-consuming process that required skilled workmanship. Designs often necessitated stones be trimmed and cut to size with a hammer and chisel to form complex shapes that fit tightly together. It is estimated that “a skilled craftsman was able to lay about 200 stones per hour, and it might take several months to complete an entire floor” (Stone by Stone, 2023). The finished projects were statement pieces that displayed beauty, color, and life. They still amaze those fortunate enough to glance upon the ancient floorings today. [1]


Seemingly out of nowhere, mosaics of color would emerge at different locations we visited on our trip to Israel. Each caught my attention, and I couldn’t help but deeply appreciate the beauty and investment they represented. Here are a few of my favorites. 1) The first mosaic we discovered on the night of our arrival was in a Byzantine bathhouse in Tiberius (see Figure 2). Typical of that time period was the neatly braided design surrounding the outside of the flooring surface. 2) Magdala featured two prominent mosaics. The first is located in the recently discovered synagogue (see Figure 3), and the second is closer to the shore of Galilee within the closed walls of an active dig (see Figure 4). 3) Hippos revealed multiple mosaics, both exposed and partly covered (see Figure 5). I had fun brushing back some dirt to unearth the ancient floor. 4) Herod’s construction on the coastal side of Caesarea Maritima exposes beautiful geometric shapes and patterns (see Figure 6). 5) Masada’s Western Palace electrifies with vibrant colors on a site now otherwise brown, desolate, and without life (see Figure 7). 6) Jericho bathhouses from the Hasmonean and Herodian periods display the elegant configuration of multiple colors (see Figure 8). Visitors can walk right up to these. 7) Tabgha, famous for its fish and loaves mosaic, provided a different treat as local artisans restored flooring in the back (see figures 9, 10). Our group took the time to watch as they carefully trimmed and placed individual stones.


All of these locations had beautiful mosaics. However, there is one place that stood out among the rest; Sepphoris, or Zippori. Sepphoris is a city with rich history and mosaics unparalleled anywhere else in the Galilee region. The site has unearthed more than 60 distinct mosaics “dating from the third century A.D. to the sixth” (Hamblin & Peterson, 2016). Near the middle of the archeological park is a covered structure protecting several mosaic scenes depicting festivities in Egypt when the Nile reached its peak, including a lighthouse in Alexandria. But even these fantastic flooring designs pale compared to the 15 panels illustrating Dionysos, which were discovered in a dining room or triclinium (see Figures 11, 12, 13, 14). The scenes are estimated to have been constructed sometime between 200-300 A.D. by a wealthier family of importance or perhaps a city or district governor. There are 23 different colors used, comprised of both limestone and glass cubes, and they are formed in a U shape layout (Murphy-O’Connor, 472). The 15 panels would have been breathtaking for guests gathered around the stones. But one exceptional panel elevates the entire room; the “Mona Lisa of Galilee” (see Figure 15).


This female has been “perfectly preserved directly below where the host/hostess would have reclined” (Murphy-O’Connor, 473). It plays a trick on the guest as anywhere one moves, it appears her direct gaze never breaks. She is wearing a garland headpiece and is even seen to be adorning earrings. The stones used for her mosaic panel are smaller than others typically seen in synagogues and bathhouses. Care obviously went into making her features delicate, soft, and accurate. If you ever get the chance to visit Israel or study mosaics in detail, Sepphoris is worth the attention with its crowning jewel, the “Mona Lisa of Galilee.”


Of all the places visited in Israel with their countless archeological contributions to the biblical story, why did mosaics stand out? Why would God decide to make that the one thing He would reveal as the centerpiece of my trip to Israel? I’ve thought long and hard about this. My conclusion is that it teaches me (and my ministry) something about a life of growing discipleship. Our transformed lives as committed Jesus followers are like mosaics. They are being shaped, formed, planned, and put on display so that others can know the beauty of Christ. It’s not an easy or short process. It may require chipping certain parts of our lives away so the pieces fit together correctly or reshaping the hard places that don’t quite belong. But day by day, we partner with God as his followers to intricately lay stones that move us closer to the bigger picture taking shape. God’s mosaic is a living representation of his Kingdom and ways. Lay your stone!


Luke Dowdy

Berlin Brethren Church



REFERENCES

Cartwright, Mark. 2019. Mosaic. World History Encyclopedia. (September). https://www.worldhistory.org/Mosaic/ (accessed June 6, 2023).


Hamblin, William, and Peterson, Daniel. 2016. Sepphoris—‘The Ornament of Galilee.’ The Desert News. https://www.deseret.com/2016/4/29/20587533/sepphoris-the-ornament-of-the-galilee (accessed June 7, 2023).


Murphy-O’Connor, Jerome. 2008. The Holy Land; An Oxford Archeological Guide, 5th ed. New York and Oxford: Oxford University Press.


Stone by Stone. 2023. (Historical information from product handout)


The Ancient Home. 2017. How to Make a Roman Mosaic – Manufacture Techniques. https://theancienthome.com/blogs/blog-and-news/how-to-make-a-roman-mosaic (accessed June 7, 2023).


 
[1] I wanted to try my hand at mosaic laying to see what it was actually like to create the stone artwork. I purchased a few do-it-yourself mosaic kits from the site of Herordium to share with my children. For myself, I picked out the fish from a panel at Sepphoris. What I thought was a 30-minute project turned into an all-day marathon (figure 1). 


By Scott Soden May 23, 2025
The joy of the resurrection echoed across Andhra Pradesh, India, this past Easter, as our Brethren partners celebrated the baptism of twenty-four new believers at the Rajahmundry and Visakhapatnam churches. What a powerful testament to the living hope found in Jesus Christ. Each of these individuals has embraced a transformational change, choosing to follow the light of the Savior over the multitude of deities in the Hindu faith. This courageous step, while filled with spiritual joy, often comes with real earthly consequences. For some, choosing Jesus means facing the painful reality of being shunned by their families and communities. Yet, in their baptism, these brothers and sisters have declared a profound truth: following Christ offers not only hope for this life, filled with His love and guidance, but also the eternal promise of life everlasting with Him. This beautiful event, occurring on Easter Sunday, is a vibrant expression of the resurrection we celebrate. Just as Christ rose from death to new life, these twenty-four individuals have risen to a new life in Him. Their baptism is a powerful reminder that the victory over death is real, and the hope we have in Jesus is a hope that transcends earthly trials and stretches into eternity. Let us celebrate their courageous faith and continue to support our partners as they nurture these new lives in Christ!  Scott C. Soden Coordinator; Brethren Global Partners
By Ryan Smith May 21, 2025
Thursday, May 15, started with overcast skies and a slight chill in the air. Despite these conditions, 19 "golfers" from the North Central region showed up at the Brookside Golf Course in Ashland, Ohio, to participate in the Lynn Mercer Spring Invitational. As the morning gave way to midday, the skies turned blue and the sun warmed the course. While it's not known if the improvement in the weather had any impact on the golf being played, those in attendance had a very enjoyable day, which concluded with a lunch and the sharing of golf course stories that were certain to rival those of the best golf pros. The North Central region hosts the Lynn Mercer Fall Classic and Spring Invitational each year. Whether you're a golfer or not, these are great times to gather with others from around the region and spend the day together. The Fall Classic will take place sometime in September or October; do plan to attend. Respectfully Submitted, Ryan Smith Director of Ministry Operations
By Scott Soden May 21, 2025
Across the vast oceans and many years, God is bringing the Brethren Church in the U.S. back together with our brothers and sisters in Malaysia. Even though we've been far apart in distance and time, God has been moving to reconnect us yet again. Churches in Penang and Johor Bahru are now working with us to build new friendships. We hope this will strengthen our partnership and also include our friends from the Brethren Church in the Philippines. This will create a wonderful link of churches around the world. The church in Johor Bahru reports that it has moved to a new building that is all on one floor. This makes it easier for older members who have trouble with stairs to participate. Their new location also has a garden where people can go to think quietly, pray, and meet Jesus in peaceful solitude. We hope to visit our partners in Malaysia early next spring. Pastor Paul Stanley and some Philippine Brethren Church pastors plan to go too! This trip is evidence of how God is bringing us together and will serve as an opportunity to strengthen our friendships. We can also see the great work they are doing in God's name. This reconnection reminds us that being part of Christ's church extends beyond our physical location and place in time. We are united across time and place, and as we move forward together across the world, we trust that this new friendship will help God's kingdom and blessing continue to grow.  Scott C. Soden Coordinator; Brethren Global Partners
By Dan Acker May 21, 2025
Against the stunning backdrop of the Wyoming wilderness, a truly meaningful event unfolded last week. During a fly fishing trip that brought together Brethren pastors in Casper, Jamie White was joyfully ordained as an Elder in The Brethren Church. The intimate service took place within the charm of a local lodge, where a distinguished group of Brethren Elders gathered to participate in this sacred occasion. Jim Miller, Tom Sprowls, Don White, Dave Stone, Miles Larson, Dustin White, and Dan Acker collectively laid hands on Jamie, affirming her calling and confirming her ordination as an Elder within The Brethren Church. The significance of this moment was further underscored by the presence of Bill Childress, Pastor at First Brethren Church of Gratis, Ohio, and Dustin LeMaster, a pastor at 5 Stones of Ashland, Ohio, who were there to offer their support and witness. Though the setting was informal, it did not diminish the profound importance of the office Jamie now embraces. Jamie's journey toward ordination was marked by diligent preparation and the affirmation of her gifts. Examined and approved for ordination by the North Central Region in 2020, the formal service was thoughtfully delayed due to the unforeseen challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and evolving opportunities in her ministry. Upon hearing of the long-awaited ordination, Drew Meziere, the Regional Resource Coordinator for the North Central Region, enthusiastically exclaimed, “It’s about time!” Jamie and her husband, Dustin, himself an ordained Elder in The Brethren Church, have demonstrated a consistent commitment to ministry since their time at Radial Church, a Brethren Church plant they lovingly established in Canton, Ohio. Their dedication to living out the Great Commission has taken them to diverse landscapes, from guiding fishing expeditions and hosting spiritually enriching retreats along the pristine rivers of Casper, Wyoming, to serving communities near the tranquil lakes of Cleveland, Ohio. In every context, their passion for making disciples has remained unwavering. It is this very adaptability and commitment to meeting people where they are that has deeply resonated with Summit Ridge Community Church in Tucson, Arizona, their current church home. Recognizing the unique and fruitful nature of their itinerant chaplaincy, Summit Ridge has wholeheartedly embraced Jamie and Dustin's calling to minister in unconventional ways to individuals who may not typically engage with a traditional church setting. Their work exemplifies a dynamic and evolving expression of faith, reaching beyond traditional walls to connect with people in the everyday rhythms of their lives. With heartfelt joy and anticipation for the impact of her continued ministry, we extend our warmest congratulations to Reverend Dr. Jamie White on her ordination as an Elder in The Brethren Church. May God's abundant blessings continue to enrich her life and empower her vital work! Dan Acker Pastor, Summit Ridge Community Church (Tucson, AZ) West Regional Resource Coordinator
By Dan Acker May 13, 2025
Summit Ridge Community Church Commissions New Leaders, Emphasizing a Servant's Heart
By Steven Longenecker April 23, 2025
By the rude bridge that arched the flood, Their flag to April’s breeze unfurled, Here once the embattled farmers stood, And fired shot heard round the world. “Concord Hymn,” Ralph Waldo Emerson, 1836. This is true. The American Revolution was transformative. One hundred years later, poet James Russell Lowell celebrated the modest span as “era-parting.” As the Concord militia ran across the bridge chasing retreating redcoats, they ran from one era into another. This is also true. The United States was the first government founded on the principle that “all men are created equally.” To be sure, this noble concept was very imperfectly implemented, but nobody else, certainly not European monarchies, even pretended to believe it. On April 19 we rightly celebrate the 250th anniversary of Concord, the beginning of a war that led to American independence. But there’s more. The first shots were not fired across Emerson’s “rude bridge” but on Lexington Common. Here three British companies faced the village militia. Major John Pitcairn, the British commander, ordered the Massachusetts men to disperse. The militia captain, John Parker, seeing that his men were significantly outnumbered, ordered them to break ranks and leave. But before they could, somebody—we still don’t know who—shot, and the British spontaneously responded with heavy fire. Then, again without orders, they charged, shooting and bayoneting, including the wounded. Historians disagree over whether British officers encouraged the melee or futilely screamed for order. Almost certainly, however, redcoats cut down fleeing militiamen. It was more massacre than battle. This atrocity, not Emerson’s “shot heard round the world,” inaugurated a lengthy, difficult, brutal war. The War for Independence lasted eight years, the longest conflict in American history until Vietnam and now fourth behind Afghanistan, Iraq, and Vietnam. Civilians were targeted, casualties high, and prisoners, when taken, treated inhumanely. Lexington wasn’t the only time in the war when wounded and surrendering soldiers were assaulted; both sides did it, but more often the British. As people of faith remember Lexington and Concord, they can find three takeaways. 1. Injustice creates conflict. Identifying wrongs inflicted upon us comes naturally, but the call is to recognize injustice felt by others. The colonists had legitimate grievances: They were unrepresented in Parliament and taxed without their consent, a fundamental injustice. Logically, they demanded self-government. For ignoring American complaints, Imperial leadership lost some of its most valuable colonies, and its military endured high casualties. The lesson is that release for the captives and freedom for the oppressed are both the right thing to do—"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness”—and pragmatic because of the problems they solve. 2. Similarly, bad things happen when people stop listening to each other. Mostly, this falls again on the British. Even a few months after Lexington and Concord, independence was still not mainstream among Americans, who probably would have accepted something short of full sovereignty. How might the history of the British Empire evolved if it had listened and applied the Golden Rule? Tone-deafness cost the British severely. Likewise, may we remember that most arguments have two sides. The Empire’s anger over the extensive property damage caused by the Boston Tea Party feels legitimate. Refusal to concede that the other side has a point or two often has significant practical cost, in this case further widening the breach between the Empire and its seaboard colonies. This is not to say that Jesus compromised his values, but he lunched with tax collectors and sinners and, presumably, listened. 3. Wars are easier to start than to stop. This includes labor (strikes) and trade wars. The great conflict that started on Lexington Green lasted much longer than anybody thought. In fact, there was little deliberation. Tensions escalated and anger boiled until violence erupted, and once the floodgates of war opened, it took eight years and rivers of blood spilled before they closed. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they are not only the children of God but, in practice, they rescue society and, especially, innocents from the suffering of war. In the long run society is best served by peace (and justice). Do justice, listen, and make peace: Put together, these lessons from Lexington are foundation stones of Christian behavior, and they equip Brethren to be the salt of the earth in tumultuous times. Steve Longenecker is Professor of History, emeritus, at Bridgewater College (VA). Photo by Donovan Reeves on Unsplash
By Scott Soden April 23, 2025
On Saturday, April 5th, churches and representatives from across the Southeast Region of The Brethren Church gathered at Windhaven Church in Mount Jackson, VA, for a powerful day of fellowship, prayer, and storytelling. Over 75 attendees, including 25 enthusiastic youth from several churches, came together to celebrate and share inspiring stories of how God is transforming their communities and responding to the urgent need for hope, love, and connection in these divided times. The gathering was a flurry of activity. Here are some of the highlights: During the morning, the youth poured themselves into a community service project; they assembled water bottles with socks, other essential items, and snacks for local homeless shelters. Chyann Mackey and Laura Waldron (Both of Mount Olive Brethren Church, McGaheysville, VA) shared their excitement about preparations for this summer's camp, now under the new name: Kairos! Their palpable enthusiasm left attendees eager to witness how God will use this initiative. Pastor Don White (St. James Brethren Church, Fairplay, MD) shared a powerful message about the importance of experiencing God's presence and living in both spirit and truth. St. James is growing and actively engaging in local ministry initiatives, primarily through the Women's Missionary Society (WMS) groups from collaborating churches—truly a remarkable story worth sharing. Sara Moore (Saint James Brethren Church) emphasized Brethren Academy's vital connection to the region and showcased current and former students who now serve as mentors or in ministry within their local churches. Looking for ways to grow your youth in Christ? Check out Camp Kairos, Engage Youth Conference (both this summer), and Brethren Academy this fall! Valerie and Micah Ceary from the Gathering Church (Hagerstown, MD) and Joe and Katie Turner shared updates through videos about their new church plants in Maryland, which are advancing in unique ways throughout the region. Pastor Lee Reams (Compass Community Church) highlighted his church's summer sports outreach they put on in cooperation with Eukarya Christian Academy in Stephens City, VA. Read more about it at https://www.brethrenchurch.org/compass-community-wraps-up-summer-sports-outreach . Pastor Todd Crowder and the team at Maurertown Brethren Church (Maurertown, VA) are inspiring witnesses through their work with inner-city kids. Hearing Todd's journey—starting with one child in his truck and expanding as kids sought connection and fellowship—was uplifting. Pastor Kent McKay (Canvas Community Church, Winchester, VA) discussed the importance of vision and mission in the recent merger. Canvas Community Church was formed from the merger of Canvas Church, a local non-denominational church, and our own Grace Community Church in late 2022. Now, less than three years later, a full one-third of the new congregation are new members to their congregation and were not part of either Canvas or Grace Community. This remarkable statistic is a testament to the efficacy of their outreach and the work of God in Winchester. Pastor Brad Reaves showed a video highlighting the impactful work in Guinea-Bissau, where they partner with One Child to use the Bridgely App to fund children's schooling. Additional highlights included a recap of the recent Regional Women's Retreat, celebrated as a resounding success, and updates from the Gathering Church in Winchester, VA on their substantial outreach to local homeless shelters as they celebrate their fourth anniversary this Palm Sunday. Pastor Simon Flint spoke about their Toddler-Time outreach at Muskoka Community Church in Huntsville, Ontario, Canada, which positively impacts mothers and families during the cold winter. Pastor Dave Stone shared in a video update how Sarasota First Brethren Church is recovering after Hurricane Milton damaged its building (read more about that at https://www.brethrenchurch.org/nappanee-brethren-repair-hurricane-damage ). During that same update, Dave Stone noted that their facility is used by seven Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous groups every week. What an extraordinary array of stories! God is surely at work, using the Brethren Church in remarkable ways. Please share the good news of what God is up to in your church and community at our MemoryFox page . We look forward to sharing more inspiring stories from your region as well!
By Dan Acker April 15, 2025
A Legacy of Faith and a New Chapter: First Brethren Church Celebrates Pastor Roger Stogsdill's Retirement and Welcomes New Leadership
By Dan Acker April 15, 2025
Joyful Celebration as Pasadena Centro Crista Welcomes Daniela Escobar Through Baptism
By Scott Soden April 9, 2025
On Sunday, March 23, the Brethren Church in Cay Pombo, Philippines gathered as usual to lift their hearts and hands in praise and worship to God, their Father. Yet that day was far more than a typical Sunday; it was a joyous celebration of God’s goodness and all He has accomplished in the church during its first full year of ministry. “As we celebrated our 1st anniversary, we're reminded that God has a plan to prosper us and give us a hope and a future. We're excited to see how He will continue to work in the lives of many through the JOFF (Jesus Our Firm Foundation) Cay Pombo Church. We've seen God move in amazing ways. We've witnessed lives transformed, relationships built, and how Jesus moves in everyone's lives, and yet, we know that this is just the beginning. We're trusting God to guide and direct us always. To God be all the glory! Happy anniversary, JOFF Cay Pombo!  As we celebrate this first year of ministry and Kingdom growth, may this moment inspire the church here in the United States and around the world to boldly witness for Jesus in our neighborhoods, communities, and nations. Amen!!! Scott Soden Coordinator, Brethren Global Partners
More Posts