Most people want to help others.
In order to do so, we have to have something to give. Something we can share that pulls a person up, dusts them off, and pats them on the back. A fabric of our being that enables us to hug their neck, shed a tear with them, and encourage until they can’t help but smile.
This fuel must give them a sense of security, or confidence, or both. It has to be energy that builds in us until assurance overflows and puddles around them.
What is this something we can offer?
It’s warmth that never chills. Affection that never falters. Contentment. Satisfaction. It’s the polar opposite of misery. It’s joy.
If this flame of hope depended on my efforts, I confess the wick would be too short, the fire snuffed out before I could help myself, much less others. It’s only the love of God the Father that can ignite a sustaining blaze in me — in you — that sheds light in the midst of pain and confusion.
Fill us up, Lord. Flow us over. There’s people in need everywhere.
“I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow! This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
John 15:9-12
My spotlight artist this week is Barbara Turner from Pocahontas, Arkansas
From Barbara:
I am a wife to Eric, a mother to Emma, and the Financial Aid Director at Williams Baptist College in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas.
I love artwork. I minored in art at Williams Baptist College and still have a few of my pieces. My parents’ house has more of my past projects, and my home and office are filled with artwork from students and friends.
I’ve enjoyed handcrafting cards since my late 20’s. With my busy life, it’s a project I can finish fairly quickly. I would much rather make a card than write in it. I get writers block– what do I say now after working to create it? My favorite thing about designing a card is bringing someone joy. I do it for enjoyment. When I tried to sell them, all my joy and creativity disappeared.
Since Emma has been old enough, I’ve loved making cards along side of her and helping guide her in creating balance in her pieces. Not gluing anything down before you have it all laid out was one of the hardest lessons to teach.
Watch this video to see a sampling of Barbara’s beautiful handcrafted cards
Your artwork is beautiful Barbara,I always thought you were a talent just waiting to happen..What a wonderful way that God is using you.I hope that you know what a blessing you are to others….