Vernia
Canvas 36” x 42”
Time: Approx. 3 hours
[Not For Sale]
Artist Statement
This only I want to learn from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Galatians 3:2 (NKJV)
Pastor Doug expounded on ways we can tune in to the Holy Spirit within us so we can know what to do or say next in life. Doug emphasized God wants to be our friend (Jesus said, “I have called you friends.” John 15:15), and that friendship is not possible without conversation. Doug also explained how time and effort are required to develop a reliable sense of Spiritual-hearing, if you will. And for friendship with God to blossom, focused and skillful listening is required.
This image was inspired by, Vernia, a long time member of Hope Covenant Church. I was moved when Doug told me of her dedication to fellow brothers and sisters, and the care she put into bringing beauty to the grounds around the church. Holy Spirit showed my a picture of, Vernia, doing the work of planting. And, I realized later, this image also depicts the time and attention necessary for us to cultivate our capacity to hear the Spirit. After all, the more green leaves our “plant” has, the more “sunlight” it can receive.
As a counselor, listening is something I have worked extremely hard at. Both, listening to my clients and to the Holy Spirit (often at the same time!) The challenge, ironically, is to do less--less of my own “helpful” interpretations of what I’m hearing. These interpretations are judgements, essentially, which distance me from my client. I have experienced deep understanding of my clients when I have accepted their point of view as 100% true for them, no matter how much this differs from my own. The same is true with God--I automatically interpret God’s words too! It is only by doing the constant “gardening” of believing that Jesus’ faithfulness on the cross has set me right with God, that I my heart opens to truly listen to and trust God’s view of me, others and every situation in my life!!