The walls of my home are adorned with a multitude of paintings. They are special to me because they were gifts from a generous and talented friend who has quite a knack for decorating (and who has mercy on me because I have no knack for decorating!) Each piece of artwork is a thing of beauty that brings joy to my heart. (You can check out her gallery on www.artbysylvia.com)
I also have a lot of windows in my home, especially across the back of the house. As I look out these windows this morning, the ground is covered with a thin blanket of white, a rarity here in the suburbs of Atlanta. The tree leaves have been kissed by snow, and a brilliant male cardinal is greedily and gratefully munching at one of the feeders. Although it is still early, the world is bright. Gazing at this beauty also brings joy to my heart.
Although I love both the paintings and the windows that I am blessed to have in my house, if I had to choose which one I would rather be, I would choose a window. A painting is created to capture your attention. It calls out, “Look at me. Aren’t I beautiful?” A painting is designed to be noticed and admired. A window is the opposite. A window bids you come and see beyond it. It was not meant to stand out, but to allow you to focus your attention elsewhere. A window disappears as you gaze through it to see something else.
Although I love my paintings, I don’t want to be one. I don’t want to live my life hoping to gain the accolades and the approval of those around me. I would much rather be a window that others can see through to get a glimpse of Jesus.
Kathy,
I love this. Thank you for sharing your heart. I want to be a window, too :)
Love you,
Melissa