The Main Event

"The Main Event"

8" x 10" Linen Panel

NFS

This is Bryson, little brother of God’s Masterpiece, Caylee (see May 2013 post.)  Happy first birthday to him…….and it’s time for his one-year old picture!!

Being the planners that they are, Bryson’s mom and Grammy began the search for the perfect coordinating family outfits months ago.  The date was carefully determined, their favorite photographer scheduled, and location strategically selected.  As time neared, their photographer had to cancel and they were left with Grammy - who knew just enough about photography to snap some shots on a very nice borrowed camera equipped with an “Auto” setting. 

Finally the day came and you can imagine the process of getting 3 small children, husband, and yourself dressed to look as if you had just stepped off the pages of a fashion magazine.  Mom had even thought to pack treats and drinks that would not muss their clothes.  Once in the car, the chaos was behind them – smooth sailing ahead – a fun family outing at the beach!  As they arrived, clouds began to roll in, the sun disappeared and gusty winds began to blow.  A bit deflated, they carefully trudged to their pre-chosen destination.  Suddenly, quite a distance from the car, Caylee had an issue that I won’t go in to, but let’s just say when little sister isn’t happy, no one is :)

While mom, dad and big brother were tending to the situation, little Bryson, who is normally the “main event”, chose to wander away from the scene and seek a bit of solitude.   As I pushed paint around on the canvas, I contemplated Bryson’s innocence and peacefulness, as well as the serenity of the scene. Because I knew of the chaos that we don’t see in this clip, God’s provision became evident.

In spite of all of their planning and attempt to control the outcome of their family photo shoot, God allowed a different story to unfold, yet it resulted in some great shots and lessons learned.  (Oh, did I mention that mom didn’t bring a change of clothing for Caylee?)

I am reminded that in spite of what is going on around us, Jesus offers us the invitation to withdraw from the flow of life, anywhere, anytime - to be with HIM - in His Word, in praise and thanksgiving, in prayer, and just listening.

“Here’s what I want you to do:  Find a quiet, secluded place so you won’t be tempted to role-play before God.  Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage.  The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense His grace.”

                                                                                    Matthew 6:6 (Taken from The Message)