For Such A Time

"For Such A Time"

16" x 20" Oil on Canvas

This is my second portrait of Esther from the story we read in the Old Testament. I love portraits and exploring the way light contrast against darkness and speaks more than any words I could write about it. I wanted to return to this image because I felt drawn to the cascading sunlight and the way it touches the single strands of hair making them radiate. It's subtle but powerful.

Esther's life was full of uncertainty and challenges yet she is known for her courage and faith. "For such a time," is often quoted from her story ( Esther 4:14) because it suggest that God has a purpose and a plan for each person's life. It shows us something of God's perfect timing, especially in challenging situations. It inspires us to take action and trust in the way God works all things for our good.

In this image of Esther, she is reflecting the light that is shining upon her. There is freedom on her face and glory as she steps into who she was made to be. As we take these steps into our created purpose we become like mirrors that reflect our Creator. It's not striving to be something, its embracing who we already are.

Paul writes, "But the moment one turns to the Lord with an open heart, the veil is lifted and they see. Now, the "Lord" Im referring to is the Holy Spirit, and wherever he is Lord, there is freedom. We can all draw close to him with the veil removed from our faces. And with no veil we all become like mirrors who brightly reflect the glory of the Lord Jesus." (2 Cor 3:16-18)

Esther turned to the Lord with an open heart. The veil of fear lifted and she walked into her purpose and saved a nation. My prayer for each one of us is to be able to turn to the Lord with an open heart and allow our eyes to be opened to His guidance, His wisdom, His love and become like mirrors that reflect His glory. Perhaps in such a time as this, your courage and your faith will be felt generations from now in ways you had never imagined.