The Rev. David West says he draws for Jesus. He will be doing just that tonight at 15^th Street Church of God in Washington. The chalk artist has found a way to illustrate his sermons while he gives them.

“I’ve known him for a while and he started doing this a few years ago. I think he’s gotten pretty good at it,” said the Rev. Thomas Lee, pastor of 15^th Street Church of God.

On his website, www.ncchalkartist.com, West points out that Jesus illustrated his teachings with parables. He cited John 10:11, where Jesus says he is the “good shepherd” and later refers to himself as “the true vine” (John 15:1).

Matthew 5:14 says,  “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.”

“It is proven that people remember 80 percent of what they see versus only 20 percent of what they hear,” West said. “I use chalk to draw a picture to illustrate a Biblical truth. People will often watch a chalk drawing to ‘hear’ a message they might not have otherwise heard.”

Lee said West’s sermons have the potential to deepen one’s relationship with God.

“I think it just gives a deeper meaning to the word and to the paternal relationship of God,” he said.

West’s sermon will be at 6 p.m. in the sanctuary.

The 15^th Street Church of God is located at 336 E. 15^th St., adjacent to Oakdale Cemetery.

To learn more about the Rev. David West, go to www.ncchalkartist.com