Like many of you each year a certain word or words becomes the focus. Generally for me the word keeps appearing over and over. Such was the case with "Peace".
I love the story about a wealthy man who commissions an artist to depict a painting of peace.
The artist first paints a lovely country scene...cows grazing in a meadow...birds flying overhead in a clear blue sky...a small village quietly situated off in the distance. When the artist presents the painting to the man - it is refused. He says "this is not a true picture of peace."
The artist returns to his studio disappointed yet willing to try again. He then paints a beautiful woman holding a sweet sleeping child. For sure this would please the man. No - it too was rejected.
Feeling discouraged the artist is at a loss. He even decides to pray for inspiration. Almost at once an idea forms and the artist rushes to his canvas and paints like he has never painted before.
This time when he takes the painting to the gentleman he can't help but hold his breath. Yes the man at last is happy. It is the true picture of peace.
The artist had painted a stormy sea pounding at the shore with lightning and dark clouds. He had even captured the feel of the strong winds. In the middle of the painting though there was this small bird resting in her nest beneath a cliff. She was safely calm amidst the storm. Author Unknown
I am wishing all of you true "Peace" in the coming year. Perhaps you will share your perfect word or words for 2019.
God Bless
Debbie
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27 (NIV)
