Let God Arise!

I could almost hear Chris Tomlin's voice singing that song as I typed the title....The lyrics are all about God being on top, the most visible thing, The One who "reigns now and forever." That is just what God did when I set pastel to paper during our April women's retreat.

One of my jobs during this retreat was to organize and set up a "creative playground". This was part of our prayer room and, like the prayer room, was designed to be a place where women could worship and commune with God. Oh, and that is just what they did. Having been able to spend some time in there alone Saturday morning, I painted while listening to some of my favorite worhsip tunes on my MP3 player. The shapes and colors I used were completely inspired by the notions that God placed in my hand at each moment I made a mark. In that place, at that time, this kind of artwork became different for me than it had been in the past....
Although I had drawn during worship many times, this time was different. I felt a deeper longing to make this my "sacrifice of praise" to the Father. I also felt a new freedom to use the colors, make the marks and draw the shapes that came to mind, regardless of whether I had a plan or not. It was great. God brought forth freedom! It was not about performing or pleasing anyone. It just became a way of worship and I loved it.

It wasn't long that Saturday morning that I had to stop painting so I could join the group for corporate worship. During worship, as someone later said, even though I was standing, singing and raising my hands, I still felt like I was sitting quietly. The art had become an extension of my worship more than I thought! Singing along with the band was simply not enough anymore! I knew I had more to give.

That afternoon, I shared that I really felt I should take my art supplies to the Saturday night session and something else broke loose! Those who have been watching me grow in this area, celebrated, the worship team not only agreed, they embraced the idea. So, it was a done deal...
I would make art while the band made music to the Lord.

I have been able to continue this several times since the retreat. At times, I have spent my quiet time drawing in my lap. The rest has been a more dynamic and wonderful experience. I have been creating my pieces while watching an incredible outpouring God is doing through Todd Bentley and Fresh Fire Ministries in Lakeland, Florida. Each broadcast on GODTV, channel 365 on DIRECTTV, has begun with a powerful time of worship. When I have watched it I just have not wanted to go without painting while I worshiped. So, I didn't!

My work is pictured here.

Many folks expressed interest in purchasing them and they are available. The originals or print of the originals can be purchased. Just contact me. 704-795-0356 or anniec@carolina.rr.com.

I think it is important that my mission be understood to let God Arise. Why is this art such a great way for me to do that?? Because I spent at least 30 years of my life trying to use my creativity for my glory and it never felt right. When I met Jesus, I knew I had to use it for His and I have been pressing in for years now so that would happen. These pieces do that. I didn't plan them, I didn't sketch them first, I just started and let the Holy Spirit guide me.

Second: I believe I am a forerunner in a time and season where God is claiming back creativity in all types of the arts. What he uses me to make is going to cause others to do the same. Our God is The Creator of all things. We are made in His image. Why would he not intend creativity in all forms to be a way to enjoy Him and magnify Him? I want others to learn to do the same.

God has spoken to me through these pieces in so many different ways. ...

What is He saying to you?

"Streams of Living water"
18x 24", Oil Pastel on paper
Original: $95, unframed
8x10 print $10 plus shipping


"Fertile Seeds"
18x 24", Oil Pastel on paper
Original: $95, unframed
8x10 print $10 each, not including shipping

10% of all sales will be tithed.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

"Merry Christmas!"

"Merry Christmas!".

Its automatic, isn't it? If someone greets you that way, its almost reflex to wish it right back. Its a way of saying," Hello!" "Greetings!", etc.

"Happy Mother's Day!" I always greet the moms I know.

Right back at me they say, "Happy Moth- uh, well, (pregnant pause)....."

I enjoy passing along Mother's Day wishes to my matriarchal friends. I also like to pay special attention to those children or mothers who are without their mothers, or children for some reason. It brings me joy and fills a spot that seems a bit empty each Mothers Day as more often than not, I am without my mother, who lives in a different state. Its fun to see the smiles on their faces, and sweet to take part in the phone calls that have become part of my annual Mother's Day routine.

But, there are always a few instances when I pass this wish along when someone catches themselves wishing it back to me- before they can stop themselves....Seems awkward for some. However, I want to put all minds at ease. Its OK!

Afterall, I have raised 2 wonderful dogs, Floyd and Murphy (rest his little soul). And, I hang out with 40-70 of the finest teenagers in Concord on a daily basis. I might not have carried and birthed a child but certainly, I mother them every day...I mean, one of those kids was so on my heart that I prayed for him all weekend long, at least a couple times each day. I get to comfort, correct, even guide these kids- pets, too. Isn't that what moms do?

I said to one friend, "I feel like a mom. I'm part of the village."

So, go ahead, have a HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY. And, wish me one, too!