remembering

While doing more wallpapering I was remembering so many things. The spare room was once called the office and where I would do my college study. That same season my first exchange student came. With the second one, we painted the room and she helped to create some wonderful floral work on the walls that stayed for 16 years.

It was time for change. Time for new.

Belen – Segovia, Spain – Student #3

I think of the words in Philippians 3 – it talks about forgetting what is past but I know I will not forget it all, not when I remember how it has made me more in His image.

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Phil 3:12-14

Often we are afraid of change. I definitely had some fear in having kids in my house and life when I’ve never raised my own. But God…. He had given me some warning and definitely a lot of grace as I learned how to be a friend to someone from another culture and a pseudo parent. Four short term students later and I was heading to Haiti where I was the foreigner …. memories.

God did not create us to just be satisfied with how things are or always desiring to go back to the way they were, He has called us to follow Him which seldom comes with the best road map. Do you think the Israelite’s could have wandered less years?

Memories – of learning flexibility, acceptance of different ideals, communicating simply and honoring how others feel or believe. So much more…

Thank you God that you use everything in our lives to teach us Your better ways. Guide us today to remember and yet to press on toward all that you have called us to!

enjoy the clouds

My painting “Through the Clouds” is with an online gallery and was being featured last week. I found a quote to go with the post that left me thinking further on clouds.

It is better to have your head in the clouds, and know where you are… than to breathe the clearer atmosphere below them, and think that you are in paradise.
Henry David Thoreau

Through the Clouds – encaustic oil and hot wax 12×12

What do you see through the clouds?

I felt so much more on clouds and not just with this painting. Clouds of covid, candidates, colors and cares. So much clouding our joy, our vision, our hope. Are we trusting only in what we see, what’s in the news, what our friends or family say? Are we focusing so much on the clouds, yet missing the purpose of them?

We MUST have clouds for rain, for covering from the intensity of the sun. Even the rainbow comes through the clouds.

Many verses on clouds came to mind too. Here are a few to think about.
Exodus 13:21 And the Lord went before them in a pillar of cloud to guide their way by day, and in a pillar of fire to give them light at night, so that they could travel by day or night.

1 Corinthians 10:1 I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that our forefathers were all under the cloud, and that they all passed through the sea.

Genesis 9:13 I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth. (and how long does a covenant last? hmmmm)

John 16:33 I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Hope and promise are not found only in sunshine but even in the clouds and most certainly in His Word.

Thank you Lord that Your words are anchors we can rely on when the storm tossed waters are beating at our door. Your covenant has not stopped even if we have been wandering or wondering. Help us to discover the blessings and the promises that are always there even when we can’t see clearly through the clouds. Open our eyes to see how you are parting the sea and guiding us day and night for safe passage through it all ….

crossing the line

The Disciple – oil/cwm 16×20

In the midst of a busy season also brings what will be my biggest exhibition so far. Others may not realize it, but it’s intimidating and exhilarating at the same time.

Usually at the gallery I have 8-15 paintings. This will be close to 25 and include writings. I was also asked to speak which doesn’t seem as threatening as showing these more personal creations.

As I was asking the Lord what I might need to share in writing, a very strong message came.

“We all have a chicken line to cross.”

I laughed! God definitely has a sense of humor! I thought of this painting right away. The GOLD is waiting if we dare to take a step!

Ask the Lord today what line you need to cross.
It might be to see yourself as one who is already equipped and prepared.
It might be to know that God really does have good plans for your life.
Maybe it’s something that seems difficult like a phone call to an organization or company.
I pray that the kingdom courage you already have will rise up to meet you as you dare to step forward!

It’s not always a matter of success or great revelations, but often a matter of obedience to go where you are sensing God needs you to be. Momentum only comes from allowing movement. He can’t move with us unless we’re stepping out!

Some of my chicken lines this year.
Becoming a chaplain and not knowing where He wants that used.
Stepping down from leading our gallery management team.
Reseeding my lawn and hoisting 40 lb bags of dirt.
(At my age – wood chips are easier.)

even in storms

Night time is not the right time to get great color photos of your art work but it will suffice to demonstrate today. This was a photo from a friend. I loved that it captured both storm and beauty and asked if I could study it. My study may seem a bit different but it’s to get paint out and capture some parts of the photo. Not exact. Not precise. More the feeling of that moment of study. This photo speaks richly. First seen on a higher resolution computer screen, it lacks a lot on my laptop but still inspires.

We often will look at something and have a quick thought, impression or understanding. It’s when we take some time to study the scene, person, situation or passage – when something more comes.

Relating to God’s word, I think of the mystery that requires revelation and why we are told to “meditate” on His word day and night. We have different perspectives during light or darkness.

Do not let the sun go down on your anger. Ephesians 4:26

Relationships should not be a holding tank for the storm. They should be a place of grace, forgiveness and hope.

We could concentrate on the storms or chose to look for the sun setting, seeking the rainbow, the  wonder, the possibility and promise.

A verse comes to mind…

He prepares a table before me in the presence of my enemies. Psalm 23:5

Thank you Lord that even when things seem the darkest, when the storm seems the roughest and everywhere we turn seems to be bleak, there is a table of Your goodness ready and waiting for us to discover. Thank you that through Christ we are more than conquerors! Let us share Your good news through this week with those we encounter so they too can see Your goodness in new light! 

 

 

 

how big is your God

Where’s Your Focus?

As I read a journal note about worldviews and putting God in a box, that question continued.

How big is your God?

Is the God you are believing in the same one who created the heavens and the earth? Is your God the one who brought the plagues and stood up the sea to save His people? Is He the ALMIGHTY ONE who sent His SON so you could be FREE? Is the God you believe in one you will trust? Is He bigger than cancer, wiser than the government and stronger than any natural disaster?

Why are we trying to keep Him in a little box?

Maybe it’s more important to ask why are we keeping ourselves in a box?

The same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead lives in you.

The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you. Romans 8:11 NLT

Forgive us Lord for the ways we have been limiting You and limiting ourselves. Your word says that with You nothing is impossible. It says with You, nothing is too difficult. Thank you Lord that we can trust completely in You and can walk in Your ways. Guide us through this week Lord. Let us see more clearly the fullness of Your love and know the goodness of Your heart. That our lives will be lived for Your glory!! 

 

plans expand

My plan for January was to do several small paintings. Trying new color mixes, some layering ideas and in reality – trying to discover what seems covered.

Even though I’ve been painting for years, I feel there is something more I am supposed to bring to the canvas (and to my writing.) I don’t “feel” like I have yet found it, so I continue to ask, seek and knock…

I did several small 5×7 and a couple 12×12 pieces in January. Monday I started a 16×40 piece that does stretch me. I’ve taken photos along the way to later create a moving progress “video” which will stretch me even more. This is a small section where I used some different techniques.

I ponder again… How often are we thinking small when God wants us to think big? Limiting our ideas, creativity and ability. Settling for what is safe, known, reasonable instead of stepping out on the water. Saying we are “only human” when in reality – with Christ in us…we are “MORE than human”. 

I pray you will let this year be one of dreaming again. Of discovering the more God has really designed you for. You are needed and given great gifts by our heavenly Father that the world is waiting for. No matter what limitations you might feel are in your life – there is more to your story. 

Even greater things will you do – John 14:12
With God – nothing is impossible!

 

life to the full

Free to Soar

Much of my life right now is around “retired” people. Their focus is helping the aging, being the aging, time with kids and grand kids, extra travel, hobbies and relaxing.

What does “retirement” mean to you?
Do you think of it as “life to the full”?

We spend LIFE working to save for retirement.
Investing to save for retirement.
Exercising to be fit for retirement.
Dreaming about when we reach retirement.
Hoping we make it to retirement.

Many don’t make it that far, others are forced out of work early, health issues keep some home bound and the dreams and ideas for those “later years” don’t always happen.

The words of John are potent and this is a powerful verse in a great variety of ways.

The thief’s purpose is to steal, kill and destroy. My purpose is to give life in all its fullness. John 10:10 TLB

Are we under the rule of the thief OR the King of Kings?
Do we really understand the “fullness” of God’s “purpose” here?

Maybe it’s time to take back what the enemy has been stealing.

Dear God – HELP! Help us to see the fullness You desire for our lives, no matter our age, health or other perceived limitations. Help us to step up and step out to bring Your fullness to others. Give us the wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Your ways so we can truly do what we were created for. Bring boldness, courage and strength to Your body Lord that we would stand in unity and see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living…

trusting God

This photo is from a time in Haiti. The USA piece of metal was from vegetable oil and poked over and over to become a grating surface.
Sound like our political tensions? 

The pot below is made in Haiti…on lids all around the country are the words Jesus. Extra sturdy and smooth compared to the improvised grater.  hmmmm…

Today will be filled with good and bad. It’s guaranteed no matter what day of the week or the year. No matter your feelings – be kind to others. 

I know we’ll have a great mix of emotions with President Trump being sworn into office today. I’m not a fan but I won’t resort to spewing. Who we elect affects our country and our lives but even more important is our SOURCE! That should not be found in the government but in the Creator of all. We are much more than Americans or part of democracy, we ARE children of God!

IN GOD WE TRUST should be our mindset no matter what. 

Where is your trust today?
Is anything to hard for God?

We come today Lord to pray for that peace that surpasses all understanding to guard hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. That grace and love will triumph over evil and we will be UNITED in You. Thank you that You are always concerned with what is on our hearts and long for us to know Your peace. I pray that no matter our feelings, we will not agree with hate. Thank you Lord that you are always at work on our behalf. We give You praise and declare Your goodness – today and every day. We ARE TRUSTING IN YOU! We are ALL made from dust and yet made in Your image. Guide us Lord to pray for our nation and leaders, to seek You first, to trust You fully and rest in Your wisdom. In Jesus name – Amen.

above the waves

on the easel

I heard someone over Christmas say, “Oops, I forgot, I’m not going to speak negative, that was negative.”

I think she is is her 80’s and still decided there was a change she felt would be worth it for her life! Keeping up with news, friends, and family – is not always encouraging. Many of the topics most will discuss are the negative ones. She had also commented about getting the paper again. I suggested if she wanted to stay positive – skip the newspaper! :0)

One thing is for sure – the good news of Jesus and the Kingdom of Heaven is definitely something to uplift us!!

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. 

Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! Psalm 46:1-3, 10

The waves will come – it’s part of any great beach scene… but be sure to look up and see what God wants to show you for this coming year. I’ll be taking some time to paint, pray and ponder…

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Philippians 4:8

Have a wonderful celebration of the NEW! Thank you for joining me on this journey. Praying God’s bountiful blessings to you and yours!

right or left

These thoughts on obstacles came when someone requested prayer for their obstacles be removed. I didn’t ask and don’t know what those are but the Holy Spirit sure is giving me some wisdom through it!
Thank you Lord.

If a road is under construction – should the ROAD CLOSED sign be removed?

Sometimes that obstacle is saving us from going in a direction we should not be. Isaiah 30 shares a great picture of this. Worldly wisdom is definitely not the same as heavenly ways.

Maybe our obstacles are from thinking its all about us when it’s really all about Him.

And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left. Isaiah 30:21

Thank you Lord that we are a work in process – we’re taking shape, being pruned, growing strong, branching out and can come to You with any obstacle we are facing. Thank you Holy Spirit for guiding us into all truth and giving wisdom freely on if we are supposed to remove an obstacle OR learn something as we wait to proceed. Guide us so our own beliefs are aligned with Your truth and Your ways. Thank you for peace in the process as we remain open to Your leading. There is so much more that You have for us as we seek Your Kingdom – on earth as it is in heaven. Amen