In June of this year, I shared about Part 1 of this painting. “Come Away with Me” was a three-panel piece (technical name is a triptych) completed for my husband’s cousin. This month, we will look at the third panel in this piece.
The painting was commissioned with the intention to bring a feeling of rest at the end of the day. I had combined elements from four different photos to create the composition of this piece – including inspiration for the sky, the dock, and their two silhouettes.
I titled it “Come Away with Me” to reflect the invitation for them to spend time with each other as a couple, but also with a deeper invitation for them to spend time with Christ. This third panel was the most fun to paint because of all the colours involved, as well as the brightness of the sun.
I chose this panel for the month of December because it’s usually the busiest time of the year. I wanted it to be a reminder for me (and everyone who sees this page of the calendar) to slow down and remember to spend time just hanging out with Jesus. To come away with the One who loves us most. I also thought the brightness of these colours would be a balm during the dark month of December.
The verse I chose for this month is from James 1:17, which says, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” In a season of gift giving, may we remember that everything we have is from God. These words, in contrast with this image of a sunset and the changing colours of the sky, highlight how steadfast God’s love toward us truly is.
So, my friends, we have travelled through the year of 2021 together. Each month, as I’ve written these blog posts to share, I have prayed for all of you who have my calendars – that God would meet you in the paintings. Have you enjoyed reading about them? Drop me a line to let me know what your experience has been.
Thank you to each of you who has connected with me over this past year. Your responses have encouraged me to keep going and it’s been a comfort to know I don’t journey alone!
Questions for reflection, if you want to go deeper: Which parts of you are craving rest? How can God meet you in those places today? How does this painting remind you of God’s goodness as you think back over this year?
I will be continuing to share the backstories to the paintings in the 2022 calendar. Thank you to the many of you who have bought them for yourselves and to share with others! I have a limited supply left if you still want some. You can order them at this link.
As we close off 2021 and head into 2022, may you find moments to come away with Christ and may you be reminded of how deeply, deeply loved you are!
If you enjoyed this post and want to read about the stories behind all the paintings in next year’s calendar, remember to sign up so future posts get delivered to your email! I am aiming to post them the second Friday of each month. (You might need to check your promotions or junk folders if you don’t see it.)
As always, I love to hear from you! If something in this story resonated with you, if you’re interested in commissioning a painting, or if you have other thoughts, feel free to email, or connect with me on Facebook or Instagram. Thanks for being part of my journey and for letting me be a part of yours!