Millions of copies of Warner Sallman’s “Head of Christ” painting hang in homes around the world. The picture presents Jesus as a man of strong personality, rugged health, with the marks of character and leadership. Here is the artist’s life that shaped his view of Jesus:

In 1917, the young artist was told by his physician. “You have tuberculosis of the lymph glands. Without surgery I believe you have about three months to live!”

Warner Sallman left the office in a daze. He was concerned for the young singer who had recently became his bride and for their baby that was soon to be born.

Mrs. Sallman said, “We will pray and thank God for the three months. We will ask him to use us to the limit and if He will mercifully give us more time, we shall be grateful for it.” Together they knelt in trusting prayer.

A marvelous healing took place. Warner Sallman never needed surgery. For many years he remained in robust health, an earnest Christian dedicated to Christ.