Written In Gold

For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. 1 Corinthians 13:12 (KJV)

I love going into glass studios because I look at everything there, compare what they have made to what I am making and get new ideas. Recently, I saw something that I wanted to rush right home and try. Onto a single sheet of glass was fused several small colored cabochons and one large piece of diacroic glass. Between them were sayings written in gold ink. Their choices of text were kind of lame, “Dream, Imagine, Be,” “Reach for the Stars,” “Treat yourself.” I thought they would be beautiful with Bible verses on them instead. The next day, I fused the base piece creating a blank slate all ready for text. The verse above has always been one of my favorites, but now that I work with glass, it seemed even more appropriate. But, how to get the text onto the glass? I searched on line and found a gold pen made for writing on ceramics and glass. At a low fire temperature of 1200 degrees, it adheres to the glass. I ordered one, despite the high price due to its content of pure gold, but when it came in, I could not figure out how to make it work. The directions said to shake the pen well, push down on the tip to make the ink flow and be careful not to get the ink on too thick. But, what they didn’t tell you is that the ink comes out clear, like a smear of oil. I thought the pen was defective and put it away in frustration. Yesterday, I went to a smaller glass shop than the big store with poor customer service where I usually get my glass. The little shop’s prices are higher but the owner waits on you herself. Though I pay more for glass, I always come away with a needed lesson as she takes the time to answer my questions and demonstrate her products. I noticed she had a pen for sale, so asked her about it. She said that the ink does come out almost clear, you have to be very careful how you use it, but when fired, it is a strong, high density gold. So, I gave it another try and it came out very pretty. I was so nervous about using it so that I forgot to do the verse in calligraphy. Next time, I will know. At least I can be confident I did not waste my money on that pen. A similar thing has been happening in my own life. I had a bad encounter with someone this week and though I have begged God to help me to understand why and what it all means, I have not gotten any answers. Like the gold ink on my new project that I could not see until it went through the test of the fire, though my heart is sore, I am confident that one day, God will help me to see the experience with clarity and understanding.