SHINE

"You are the light of the world.  A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.  Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all the houses.  In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."

Matthew 5:14

Now that we've "been transformed by the renewing of our mind" and can Trust in God for everything, we can jump for joy and SHINE for our Lord and Savior!  Whose watching you??  Your children, neighbors, co-workers, grandchildren... all of the above?  Even the checkout lady at the grocery store forms an opinion of you in the few minutes of interaction.  

Opportunity sometimes just knocks once!  

Let all the eyes on you, see your light shine for Him!  

Hi Friends!  Even though everything has changed in the last month, I'm leaving up my original text that I scheduled in early Feb. for Lent.   God is our ROCK.  While everything has changed, HE has not and this is a unique opportunity for us as Christians to SHINE for Him!  With negativity and fear surrounding us 24/7, we can rest assured knowing that God will prevail and will use this for His good.  We can send that message now to everyone we meet... spread the peace and confidence that "All things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28 

TRUST

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving , present your requests to God.

Philippians 4:6

I am a planner.  I like to come up with new ideas and then plan A to Z how to accomplish the task at hand.  Sometimes I get so pre-occupied with the plan I miss opportunities that God has placed square in my path, His little detours that make life what it's all about....

One of my favorite expressions is "If you want to give God a good laugh, just tell Him your plans!"

About 30 years ago when life was not going at all the way I'd planned it, I came across this poem and it totally changed my perspective and my life and now, all these years later, I can say without hesitation, it's been a great ride!!


P.S.   I worked on these sketches and posts a few months ago!  Little did I know what was in store for all of us, our country, and the world!  And how timely, this pre-posted sketch and message would be for today.  To be honest, I've been glued to the TV for days and it's taken it's toll.  But today is a new day and I'm taking to heart "The Road of Life."  We never know from day to day what will happen, but we can TRUST in the fact that God is ALWAYS in control and He will make good of every situation.  I do think it's a little ironic that the situation we are in worldwide has occurred during Lent.  A time when we are to "give up" something and to spend that time tuned into God.  To Rest, Renew, Transform, TRUST  and Shine. 

for more, please read: https://herviewfromhome.com/faith-gods-plans-are-greater/

TRANSFORM

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

Romans 12:2

Do you ever feel like you've been stuck in a cocoon?  Waiting to become who you're meant to be?  That the expectations others have of you is not your true self.  Those inner voices that tell you to be quiet, or calm when you want to take flight and soar?   I have!  

We have only one judge in this life, and He loves us more than we can imagine.  
As Christians, we are created in Christ's image, we have been filled with the Holy Spirit and will have everlasting life.   What could be better than that?
The time has come to jump for joy and soar to new heights! And to share the love of Christ to the world together!

RENEW

" Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God, truly righteous and holy."

Ephesians 4:23

I love new beginnings!  New Years Day, birthdays, sometimes just a Monday feels like an opportunity to begin again!

Lent is a time for a fresh start in our walk with Christ.  To walk with Him and talk with Him so that He can show us all He has prepared for us. 

"Renew" is a verb, it requires action.  A favorite expression of mine is "God can't steer a parked car," so it's time to get in gear and go!  He will show you the way.... He'll provide opportunities more than you can imagine and the means to make it happen.  Open your eyes and trust in that.  

"For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which He has prepared in advance for us to do."
Ephesians 4:10


read more about renewal:
www.asymphonyofpraise.com/blog/renewyourmind

REST

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, 
and I will give you rest."

Matthew 11:28

"I come to the garden alone, 
while the dew is still on the roses,

And the voice I hear, falling on my ear, 

The Son of God discloses.

And He walks with me and He talks with me,

And He tells me I am his own;

And the joy we share as we tarry there, 

None other has ever known."

Today is Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent.

In my ladies Bible study at church recently we were asked what was our "word" (in lieu of a New Years Resolution) for the year.   Mine is "Today."  

Where busy-ness seems to have become a badge of honor in todays culture, I want to slow down.  To live more in the present, to do one thing at a time, without multi tasking.   Instead of emptying the dishwasher or making the bed while I chat on the phone with a friend,  I will sit and listen, be present.   To improve the quality, not the quantity of Today.

What's your word?  
Name it, claim it and live it for this Lenten season of 
Rest, Reflection and Renewal.

Join me this Lenten Season

If you've "followed" my blog for awhile, you'll know that each Easter I post a series of art, with scripture and a mini-message.   
I've always thought of my art work as a gift from God.  I do believe that He has blessed me with this talent so that I can share with others and praise Him in all things!   

Next Wednesday, is Ash Wednesday and the first day of Lent.  This year will be my fourth year to post a "Lenten Series."   This year will be entirely new artwork, scripture and a message, found only on my blog.   It will arrive in your inbox on Wednesday mornings during the Lenten Season with a few extras during Holy Week.  

Join me as we Rest... Renew... Transform... Trust... Shine... and as we are Blessed, Remember, Forgive and Rejoice in the Risen Christ!  

I hope you'll share the Good News by forwarding them to others or invite them to sign up on my blog to receive the posts directly.

For those that made suggestions for scripture verses or posting ideas, thank you!!  I loved your input, and you may just see something familiar in the upcoming weeks!!

The Century Tree

Introducing Prints!  

After 10 years of commissioned art, I will now be offering prints of those "special places that create memories." 

The Century Tree holds a special place in the heart of many TAMU Aggies.  It is well over 100 years old and one of the first trees planted on the Texas A&M campus.   This beautiful live oak is the site of marriage proposals, weddings and the spot where countless couples fell in love.  So, I am happy to offer prints of both of these sketches available for those special Aggie lovebirds!

Above - "Century Tree"

Below - "Love under the Century Tree" is a closer up view and can be personalized with initials or names in a heart on the tree trunk, as space permits.  

More details coming soon with availability and pricing!!