Filled With Hope
Canvas: 24” X 48”
Time: Approx. 4 hours
Cost: $3,500
Artist Statement
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5: 1-5 (NASB)
When thinking of what image to paint, God showed me the image of a bird. God also showed me an image an expectant Mary. But, since I had never painted a bird and didn’t see a way to put them together in a compelling way, I decided to leave the bird out of the painting. Just before arriving at the church service, however, a highway decoration of a mythical bird caught my eye and, sensing it was not a coincidence, I said ‘Yes’ to God.
In the next few moments the image began to materialize with a picture Jesus saying “...How often I wanted to gather your children together, just as a hen gathers her brood under her wings...” (Luke 13:34 NASB). The Holy Spirit, represented by the dove, shelters Mary who simply said ‘Yes’ to God. Mary trusted God to fulfill His promise and she was able to endure tribulation, allowing Hope to grow and grow along with the baby insider her.
Many times I complicate the creative process by trying for the perfect ‘pie-in-the-sky’ glittering image, thinking ‘It has to be perfect.’ But I almost always get disappointed and stuck, unable to paint at all. So, like the conclusion of the sermon: He wants to me to say ‘Yes’ to the simple, non-glittery work that is right in front of me, so He can transform it into something amazing...“hope that does not disappoint!”