Forgiven the Painting by Thomas Blackshear II

Centered on Thomas Blackshear II's eponymous painting, this devotional gift book explores the topic of forgiveness - a subject fundamental to Christian belief. In each chapter, Roy Lessin presents a specific aspect from Blackshear's painting, a relevant selection of Bible verses, and a prayer.

Finally, he offers a reflection based upon a truth revealed in both the scripture and the painting.

FORGIVEN focuses on twelve key concepts in all, including grace, holiness, darkness, guilt, strength, and redemption. Each chapter supports Lessin's affirmation that forgiveness is one of the greatest joys, and one of the most profound gifts, that we can experience.

About the Author:

Thomas Blackshear is a United States African American artist, many of whose paintings adorn Evangelical churches, notably the New Life Church and World Prayer Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He is also a sculptor and a designer of figurines, often on African American themes.

Roy attended Bethany College of Missions (Bethany Fellowship) in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It was there that he met his wife, Charlene. After graduation, Roy served as a Christian Education Director and Youth Minister in Oakland, California. Roy and Char spent two years on the mission field―one year in Mexico, and one year in Puerto Rico working in a Christian bookstore.

In 1971, Roy started a Christian publishing company in Covina, California, called Outreach Publications. Since that time Roy spent many years in various creative and editorial roles.

Today, Roy is an active Bible teacher. He has written numerous gift and devotional books. Roy and Char have two children and four grandchildren.