Texas Contemporary Fine Artist Laurie Pace: July 2009

31 July 2009

'Racing the Storm' Sailboat Painting by Laurie Pace

'Racing the Storm'

24 x 30 inches
Oil on Canvas

Contact me to purchase or Earthworks Art Gallery:
Laurie Earthworks Art Gallery

The Painting: This painting captured even more than I set out to capture. I wanted the boats and the wind... had not anticipated a change in the weather. The original sketch was in charcoal on canvas. Then I came in with acrylic paint to establish values. Morgan told me too much blue, too many mid tones... and then I took off with the loaded palette knife with lots of color playing into the blues...with pinks, violets, greens, yellows etc. The result was more amazing than I set out to paint. Reckless adventure seeing the clear skies on the horizon and racing toward it tacking back and forth in the wind to make forward progress.

NEW NOTE: I entered this contest to win art supplies to donate to Covenant Kids, a part of the Foster program here in the North Texas Area. Please take a moment and go vote GOOD on the painting. These families can use these supplies for the children. Click on the link below and vote.

White Arabian Nights

Laurie's entry on the Winsor Newton Artists' Acrylic Competition. You can vote for them here!

The Thought: Yesterday morning we had one of these storms, but I had painted this piece the day before. Annie had me up at 2:30 a.m. walking the halls...click click click go her little doggie toe nails. "Terry"... "Terry wake up.. go put Annie back in her room." How in the world did she get out? Both of us began hunting the missing dog that was not in her room. I stumbled into the hall bathroom (Remember ours is ripped out) and tripped over her now asleep on the rug. There was no going back to sleep for me...and then the storm hit around five. We had her medicated by then and she still shook for hours...and then slept.

During that time from 2:30 a.m. until 5 a.m. when we normally get up, I laid in bed with the squirrels running around in my head. They were dodging the mind mumbles. I examined everything in my life, good and bad; everything in Terry's life, good and bad; everything in Morgan's life, good and bad; prayed over all of it... and caught about 30 min of sleep before hitting the floor in a mad run with the storm hitting.

I believe, despite how hard it is for me to let go, that the only way to resolve the unresolved is to be open to the Spirit. God has a divine order for all of this. Usually it is my muddling into things that screws it all up. Reminds me of the sailboat in the painting... we tack back and forth on and off the direct path God has for us. How would it be to think of the day unfolding in a serendipitous way...trusting that what will be will be God ordered. He will fit everything into the day that you need. You have to stop trying to force it all in.

So how are you for some freedom from your planned schedule...can you let it go?

Laurie

"May He grant you your heart's desire, and fulfill all your plans." Psalm 20:4

30 July 2009

'Kelly' Portrait Mixed Mediums Painting by Laurie Pace

'Kelly - New Beginnings'

30 x 30 inches
Mixed Mediums

Commission SOLD

Contact me for a personalized fun painting! Laurie

The Painting: This was fun layers of watercolor, acrylic, stamps, varnish etc. It was a work that was commissioned by my son of his now NEW fiance, Kelly. He had words from a poem he had written her and wanted specific colors and items through out the painting, including the ring on her finger. We had fun....and she loves it and she said YES when he asked her to marry him. He was 12 and she was 8ish when they met at church many years back.

The Thoughts: Mind Mumbling came into thought last night. Could not find much on the internet but it is definitely rolling around at the moment in my head. I link it up with grumbling... do you ever mutter to yourself? Mind mumbling has got to be a fumbling around of thoughts in your head. Bottom line it is mind clutter.

Do you think we could make it something good by recycling it? Mind mumbling could be sanded gently into Mind Meditating. It would be a matter of letting go of the mumbo jumbo and adding focus.

When you mumble out loud most folks cannot understand you because you are talking under your breath. I am assuming when you are mind mumbling you are thinking under your thoughts. If when mumbling outloud no one can understand you, does that mean mumbling in your mind that you cannot understand you? It makes sense to me. I believe we all have those moments.

I liken that to the movie OVERBOARD when Goldie Hawn is going "Bubbba bub bubu bububa" just before Kurt Russell dumps her in a barrel of rainwater. I think she had both mind mumbling going on as well as outloud mumbling.

"Mumble" through the day today... trying to bring back into focus meditating on something.... KISS Keep it simple sweetie!

Laurie

"Let me understand the teaching of your precepts; then I will meditate on your wonders." Psalm 119:27

NEW NOTE: I entered this contest to win art supplies to donate to Covenant Kids, a part of the Foster program here in the North Texas Area. Please take a moment and go vote GOOD on the painting. These families can use these supplies for the children.

White Arabian Nights

Laurie's entry on the Winsor Newton Artists' Acrylic Competition. You can vote for them here!

29 July 2009

'Sun Dance' Equine Horse Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

'Sun Dance'

Oil on Canvas
24 x 30 inches

Contact me for purchase, or contact Earthworks Art Gallery.
Laurie
Earthworks Art Gallery

The Painting: I truly could not get a good picture of this painting. It is one of my palette knife pieces with laid in chunks of thick oil paints...dragged and pulled and gently blended on the touching layer areas. It is heading for NY early next week to one of the two shows in the Finger Lake Region.

The Thought: Much is happening in our own family every day. I know it is in yours as well. Things change in split seconds and our entire lives change course. If you died tomorrow what would happen? If you work for a company... they would hire a replacement for you in two weeks.

What about your family? Would they replace you in two weeks too? I doubt it. I have been writing much lately about ALL of our overworked schedules for both ourselves and our families. We have forgotten about living. We exhaust ourselves rising up early and going late to bed "eating the bread of anxious toil" Psalms 127:2. We seem bent on making a mark in the world around us and as we do we overlook the one investment that matters most, our time with our loved ones. That does not mean time in the car rushing to soccer practice, or to choir practice or to the doctors office.... it means clearly time together living and learning more about each other without a hurried schedule. Our family needs us to set wise examples of life and how to value what God has freely given us. Our example is our legacy.

Our simple actions with our children, spouses, family etc are our investments in the future. Our family (including the Father) is the one worthy thing in our lives that we neglect the most.

What legacy would you be leaving behind?

Laurie

"Children are a heritage from the Lord." Psalm 127:3

28 July 2009

'Chocolate Horses' Abstract Horse Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

'Chocolate Horses'

18 x 27 inches, Oil on Canvas

SOLD FROM THE BLOG! Thank you.
Contact me to purchase: Laurie

The Painting: Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate....that is what you see and feel when you look at this painting. If there is one layer there are 14 or more layers of paint and pulls. This was done over a three day period. The first layer again was acrylic and then the next ones were pulls of thick buttery oils....colors overlaid and blending.

The Thought: A common subject with most Americans would be the IRS and our nation. The IRS had its first root back during the Civil War. Did you know that? President Lincoln with the help of Congress in the year 1862, created a "position" for a commissioner of Internal Revenue. Then they enacted an income tax to pay for all the war expenses. Ten years later the bill was repealed and in 1894 Congress revived the income tax bill. In 1895, a year later, the Supreme Court ruled it unconstitutional.

It was the state of Wyoming in 1913, that ratified the 16th amendment giving Congress the authority to enact an income tax. That is the first year Congress levied a 1% tax on net personal income above $3000, with a 6% surtax on incomes of more than $500,000. Since this time it has been as high as 77% in 1918 (EEK) and back down again to 24% during the great depression.
Does anyone know why we have to do it this way? I propose the thought of a general federal tax on any item ANYONE buys in this country. Base it on buying rather than income.

Yes I am a grumbler when it comes to our current system. That is my two cents worth at least on the subject. Somehow we (the middle income group) pay in so much to the government and yet we watch it go out uncontrollably for things that do not benefit us. It is not a perfect taxing system or a perfect representation system.

How is your system at home?

Biblically God asks us to help those in need. Start in your family and work your way out into your community. If you have something you can give, be it time, money, talents, etc. share it with others. Resources both spiritual and material can be shared with others. I can't fix the IRS or change our taxation system, but I can give to those around me and make changes in their lives.

Where can you give today?

Laurie

"Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in the power of your hand to do so." Proverbs 3:27

27 July 2009

'Reckoning Two' Large Equine Horse Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

'Reckoning Two'
3 ft by 4 ft
Oil on Canvas

Commission Painting SOLD
Gallery Value $4800

Contact me for your own painted pony. Laurie

© Laurie Justus Pace Graphics One Design 2009

AND available to purchase today....

'Sail Away'
18 x 27 inches
Oil on Canvas
by Morgan Pace

Available 450

Appraised Gallery Value 1495

Contact me to purchase and mention the title of the painting: Morgan

Click on the painting to see more details. The paint is VERY thick Holbein Duo Oils.

The Horse Painting: Double trouble today, but Morgan is painting and I promised to post his work. He truly is stronger every time he paints. I just finished up the 3 ft by 4 ft horse in vivid reds and greens for a home in West Texas with a very tall wall by a desk! It was fun painting this one and I still may touch up some areas along the way.

Here is a slide show of the process:

The Thought: Found out on Friday that I have TWO shows in New York in August. Also found out I need double the work. I have been painting non stop and will be today as well. Terry is busy working on the bathroom. I know we will not make it up for the shows with the bathroom still unfinished. I am hoping to escape to the lake for a few days. I will need it after this!

When playing the piano, you have to move from the clinical play of a piece to the emotional playing of a piece. The pattern of sound tells a story and the touch of the musician gives expression to the story. The music can softly life you to a high plateau and tease you with building arpeggios. Then suddenly the music can fall silent ....hesitant....quiet. WHAM...the next play of fingers across the notes sends you with eyes flying open and your heart beating fast.

A passionate player can take your mind on a soulful journey through a song. They know just the right second to transcend into quiet and explode into energy.

God is no different. Just think about your life. If you are like me I pray for plateaus of peace. I know they are short lived but it is a time to rest and regain your strength. (I am hopeful for the lake trip) God would like us to be in preparation with our gifts, ready to use them at His timing. Be ready to accomplish things in His name today.

Turn off your computer today, and your television. Be a participant in life.

I just got an email just before I clicked published and my art is the art for today on eBsq. This is for Monday as I know feedblitz sends this out a day late..so those of you on feedblitz will see it on Tuesday... my art was chosen for Monday. Click the picture to visit EBSQ.

Laurie

"As of me, I trust in You. O Lord, I say, "You are my God." My times are in Your hand." Psalm 31:14-15

26 July 2009

'Heated Race' Horse Equine Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

'Heated Race'
20 x 20 inches
Oil on Canvas

Contact me to Purchase: Laurie

Click the painting for details. Click a second time if necessary to enlarge.

The Painting: Layers of lovely thick rich buttery oil paints! I love it when they move across the canvas like this. Holbein Duo Oils on gallery wrap canvas.

The Thought: Not every day is a battle, but it seems there are things to be done and completed. The frustration is usually the uncompleted things at the end of the day. This "battle" to get it all done is not just your battle. When you arm yourself with God, you will find great success. It will never be the success you envision, but from it will come great things as they are of Him.

Reminds me of David when he battled Goliath. Such a small shepherd boy with his slingshot and rocks against a power warrior. David was armed with the Lord. He could not fail. Every move and thought had a purpose to bring success.

No earthly problem or person can steal your joy today as you set out to 'live' this day. You cannot fail if you bring God along.

Laurie

"He had great success in everything he did because the Lord was with him." 1 Samuel 18:14

Website, Laurie Justus Pace
Website, The Painted Pony
Blog, A Texas Contemporary Artist Where I post a thought for the day with my painting.
Blog, Wonders of the Heart

Galleries:
Jackson, Wyoming – The Rare Gallery
Penn Yan, New York—Earthworks Art Gallery
The Village of Granville, Ohio—The Gillian Jones Gallery
Marble Falls, Texas – Patina of Marble Falls
Dallas, Texas—The Dutch Art Gallery
Atascadero, California – The Red Tree Gallery
El Dorado Hills, California—Our House Gallery
Hong Kong – SR Gallery
Erie, Colorado – The Daily Painters
Dallas,Texas – The Daily Painters of Texas
Centennial, Colorado—The Daily Painters Abstract
Dallas, Texas - Artists of Texas

Organizations:
WAOW, Associate Member Women Artist Out West
OPA, Associate Member Oil Painters of America
AWS, American Watercolor Society
The Five Graces, 5Graces
Ask Art, Blue Book of Artists

25 July 2009

'Flowers on the Table' Abstract Flower Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

'Flowers on the Table'

18 x 27 inches
Oil on Canvas

Contact me to purchase: Laurie

Click on the painting to see details. If it looks small, click it again.

The Painting: Yes, it is a new one, and tomorrow there will be a new horse! Yesterday with a migraine painting was not easy. This has so many layers I lost count, but it is Holbein Oils on gallery wrap canvas and ready to hang. I think as an artist I would probably frame this painting, but it would hang without. The composition developed slowly with under layers of horizontal acrylics in quinacridone Orange, burnt umber and white....(yes). Then came horizontal layers applied with a brush in oils. The colors were predominately blues, greens, and a bit of rose madder. From this layer came multiple layers of color with a palette knife. The photo does not do it justice.

The Thought: Yesterday I wrote about not feeling appreciated, but this morning I am in a go go go mode and they thought is more... are there days you wake with energy and know this is a day things will happen for the good in your life? This is your time.

This is your time; this is God's time. No matter what the circumstance at this moment in your life, today is your time. Know as you go forward in the day that God has placed you in this situation to have an impact for Him. He knows where you are.

He has armed you with everything you need for this day, trust in Him and live it to it's fullest.

Laurie

"We ask our God to make you worthy of the life He has called you to live. May He fulfill by His power all your desire for goodness and complete your work of faith." 2 Thessalonians 1:11

Website, Laurie Justus Pace
Website, The Painted Pony
Blog, A Texas Contemporary Artist Where I post a thought for the day with my painting.
Blog, Wonders of the Heart

Galleries:
Jackson, Wyoming – The Rare Gallery
Penn Yan, New York—Earthworks Art Gallery
The Village of Granville, Ohio—The Gillian Jones Gallery
Marble Falls, Texas – Patina of Marble Falls
Dallas, Texas—The Dutch Art Gallery
Atascadero, California – The Red Tree Gallery
El Dorado Hills, California—Our House Gallery
Hong Kong – SR Gallery
Erie, Colorado – The Daily Painters
Dallas,Texas – The Daily Painters of Texas
Centennial, Colorado—The Daily Painters Abstract
Dallas, Texas - Artists of Texas

Organizations:
WAOW, Associate Member Women Artist Out West
OPA, Associate Member Oil Painters of America
AWS, American Watercolor Society
The Five Graces, 5Graces
Ask Art, Blue Book of Artists

24 July 2009

'Jewel' Horse Oil Painting by Laurie Pace

'Jewel'
24 x 36 inches
Oil on Canvas

SOLD

Contact me for Commission Work: Laurie

The Painting: This is an older piece from 2005. This usually means I am behind in the studio. Western Art Collector contacted me for participation in the wildlife issue coming up in September and my life went upside down. Diane Whitehead and I are doing an ad together in this upcoming edition as well as contributing to the editorial on wildlife art.

The Thought: Do you ever feel unappreciated? I know I do. I was talking to another mom yesterday who was having difficulties getting a teenage son to mow the yard. Of course it is his contribution to the family but for some reason he felt she should do it herself. We have all been there at one time or the other. It seems no matter how hard we work it never gets done.

Each day we all face unique pressures in our life. No one can truly appreciate what burdens we carry with our expectations we place on ourselves. I worked yesterday from 5:30 in the morning until nine last night. I was only out of the studio for about 30 min when I ran to the store for a few groceries. My husband looked at me and said, "Why?" Of course I had answers.

Why do we pressure ourselves so much? And attached with that comes the feeling of not being appreciated. At this moment only God truly knows your heart and your mind. He can see your current circumstances from an overall view and knows what will be next in your life. He recognizes your emotional needs as you feel spent from all you push yourself to do. He knows you better than you know yourself as He is the one that created you. Lean on Him today to take over some of the burden you face. Then lighten up on yourself. Give up at least one of those things today and take 30 minutes for yourself.

Take heart and trust Him to help.

Laurie

"We are people of flesh and blood. That is why Jesus became one of us." Hebrews 2:14

23 July 2009

'Red and Yellow Roses' Flowers Oil Painting Roses by Laurie Pace

'Red and Yellow Roses'
Mixed Medium on Canvas, Oil and Acrylic
18 x 27 inches

Contact me to purchase: Laurie

The Painting: I am trying something new on my blog posts. I will give instructions for awhile underneath the paintings. Click on the painting one time and allow a window to open. There will be a small image. Click on the small image and it will become large. This is where I will be able to show close ups of the paintings. Once sold I will delete the link to the close ups. So if you like the painting, click it, wait for the small image to appear and click it again. You will have to back track to read my thought for the day.

The Thought: Obsession with time. That is my huge issue these days. There are often not enough minutes in the day to complete my list. Yes, I made the list, God did not. It is "Laurie-made" not God made.

While Terry was on vacation this past week, we had several philosophical discussions. What would happen if I chunked it all and spent my day totally in the word and in prayer? How long before they seize our home? And then the bank starts garnishing Terry's paycheck to cover the college loan we are paying on for number two son....

Seems to be necessary to find that balance. I am obviously lacking in that area. Our world today seems obsessed with using days, saving minutes and stuffing more daylight hours in a day. We have all the time in the world but run around acting like there is not enough time. We must stop living on our time and start living on His time. God created time, He rules time and He transcends time. When you feel frustrated sit quietly and real Psalm 90.

To know the true value of time, you must have a true view of eternity.

Laurie

"Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever You had formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God." Psalm 90:2

22 July 2009

'Summer Sunrise Sail' Sunrise Landscape Large Oil Painting by Laurie Pace

'Summer Sunrise Sail'

24 x 48 inches
Oil on Canvas

Commission Painting...SOLD

Contact me for Commission Paintings: Laurie

The Painting: This is a commission painting... a large one. Layers of color slowly over three days and I am almost done. I have to layer in some of the lighter blues this morning and then it will be done. There is no impasto in this painting, it is pure oil and will take years to cure out.

The Thought: Powerful people are truly not very powerful, are they? There are those folks in your lives that play board games with a life or death attitude. They give new definition to "Playing to win." Often if they lose, the other players secretly smile and sigh in relief. You can even watch the others begin to band together as they are playing the game, trying to trip up the powerful person.

Do people like this in your life cause a negative pull on your emotions? It often makes us want to throw a monkey wrench into situations like an "I told you so". My dad always taught us to walk away whenever possible. Run away from thoughts of vengeance. Proud powerful people will sink themselves eventually, you do not have to do it for them. Remember the old adage, "Pride goeth before the fall"? Powerful people often forget who truly holds the power. No one can glorify themselves and the Lord at the same time.

Peter writes to us, "Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time." 1 Peter 5:6

His Grace provides for you today.

Laurie

"There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers." Proverbs 6:16-19

21 July 2009

'Winter Morning West' Horse Landscape Sunrise Painting by Laurie Pace

'Winter Morning West'

16 x 20 inches
Oil on Canvas

SOLD
Contact me for Commission Work: Laurie

The Painting: This was truly a favorite with the play of light behind the morning clouds. We used to live in Justin, Texas and it was pretty flat out there and not many trees. The horses were every where around us though and when I would get up at sunrise and sit on the back porch, this is what I saw every morning. I miss the country! This is oil on Canvas painted back in 2005.

The Thought: Another song is playing in my brain... one from youth group 1969. Several of us would go and play our guitars at the USO in Dallas for the troops on Sunday. Candy Moser Hagan, now a well known Opera singer, and I would track downtown with our guitars and perform. We also sang up near Lake Texoma at the base up there for services in the church. We stayed busy and we loved sharing our music.

"We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord" is a line from one of those old songs shifting around in my brain this morning. I encourage you today to be one in the Spirit. May His grace abound through you to those you meet in this day.

Laurie

"I and my Father are one." John 10:30

"that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; and they also maybe one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me." John 17:21

20 July 2009

'Morning Blaze' Fall Landscape Trees by Laurie Justus Pace

'Morning Blaze'

18 x 27 inches
Oil on Canvas

SOLD
Contact me for Commission Work: Laurie

The Painting: Another Oldie but Goodie. I went through a landscape phase in 2005 and truly enjoyed painting them. Brilliant warm colors contrast with the oncoming winter sky of soft blues and violets.

The Thought: Setting positive examples for our children and grandchildren is a top priority at our house. Your actions speak louder than your words at all times so it is necessary to beware of what you are doing. Jesus set a fine example when he wanted to show His love for His disciples. He took off His robe, wrapped a towel around His waist and then He began washing His disciples' feet.

This was not normal for then and it is not normal now. In this day, the slaves were the ones that washed your feet. It is considered an act of servant hood. By Jesus doing this, His actions symbolized His sacrifice and love for man. As He washed their feet He made a request of each of them, "If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet." John 13:14.

I challenge you to pay it forward in your actions with others.

Laurie

"I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you." John 13:15

19 July 2009

'Whistler's Orchid" Flower Orchid Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

'Whistler's Orchid'

16 x 20 inches
Oil on Canvas

SOLD

Contact me for Commission Work: Laurie

The Painting: Back in 2005 a man by the name of James Whistler sent me a cd full of his prize orchids. They have provided much inspiration for paintings. This was one of my favorites. I think he has this one. Painted on canvas from Rupen at Canvasplace.com, I used Holbein Duo Oils for a smooth creamy blend with a small brush.

The Thought: Locked in a dungeon... have you been there? I guess today we call it jail. No I have not been there, but I have visited there and that was quite enough. Carrying through though from yesterday's thought, sometimes we lock ourselves into our own jail of thought. Our world is so limited to earthly ideals and situations that we continue to miss the big picture. We are often looking for answers to things that we feel need resolution, when in fact they are things that do not matter...our earthly problems.

This one is hard for me. I am a mom and caught up in every single earthly matter around me and the members of my family. I learned from my mother before me, that I must fix everything I can fix here on earth as that is my job as 'mother' . This was not the correct lesson, but parts of it are true. Love always, love fully, love with out expecting anything back. Love as our God loves us. When a mom tries to fix everything, she is giving the wrong answer to her family. Each situation is a learning situation for that person and her interference continues to show her own need for change... letting go and letting God work.

God's silence to our problems is the answer. We are often waiting for answers to things that will never be answered. How long do you fret over it? When is it time to move on? His answers are heavenly ones...are you listening?

Post note: Jon our grandson was over late yesterday for dinner and he wanted to paint. I just finished 16 hours on a commission piece, but as tired as I was, we painted.

Here is the slide show. Terry was not in the studio for the beginning pictures:

Laurie

"Ask, and God will give to you. Search, and you will find. Knock, and the door will open for you." Matthew 7:7

Website, Laurie Justus Pace
Website, The Painted Pony
Blog, A Texas Contemporary Artist Where I post a thought for the day with my painting.
Blog, Wonders of the Heart

Galleries:
Jackson, Wyoming – The Rare Gallery
Penn Yan, New York—Earthworks Art Gallery
The Village of Granville, Ohio—The Gillian Jones Gallery
Marble Falls, Texas – Patina of Marble Falls
Dallas, Texas—The Dutch Art Gallery
Atascadero, California – The Red Tree Gallery
El Dorado Hills, California—Our House Gallery
Hong Kong – SR Gallery
Erie, Colorado – The Daily Painters
Dallas,Texas – The Daily Painters of Texas
Centennial, Colorado—The Daily Painters Abstract
Dallas, Texas - Artists of Texas

Organizations:
WAOW, Associate Member Women Artist Out West
OPA, Associate Member Oil Painters of America
AWS, American Watercolor Society
The Five Graces, 5Graces
Ask Art, Blue Book of Artists

18 July 2009

'The River' Landscape River Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

'The River'

16 x 20 inches
Oil on Canvas

SOLD
Contact me for commission work: Laurie

The Painting: This was a landscape from four years ago. It has such a peaceful feeling to it I wanted to share it. The river is placid and quiet, the Texas sun is hot. The trees are full of leaves but thirsty for water, and in the distance, the grass is yellow and light from burn and the drought. Holbein Duo Oils are the paint, and canvas is from Canvasplace.com.

The Thought: What is the cost of anxiety? How does it crawl into your life every day and how does it affect you? I decided anxiety was an energy sucker, or a life sucker. It seems to pull from every part of your life and your soul. When you are trying hard to do something in a positive motion, it is anxiety that pulls you away splitting up your day. We seem to live partly in the now and partly in the 'what if' of tomorrow.

Someone wise told me that worry is not a disease, but it is the cause of disease. Did worry and anxiety ever solve anything in your lifetime? Fretting about the 'what ifs' is futile. Live for today and let go and let God. Abram had to do it... you can do it too. Abram had no son to inherit his land and carry on his name. He was old... he could not grasp that God could and would change this from happening. He finally let go and let God. It was when God showed him the heavens filled with stars telling him his descendants would be too many to count, just like the stars, that Abram believed. His faith made him right with the Lord.

Have faith today...do not worry. Let your Father care for you.

Laurie

"After these things happened, the Lord spoke his word to Abram in a vision: "Abram, don't be afraid. I will defend you, and I will give you a great reward." Genesis 15:1

17 July 2009

'Arabian in Red' Large Equine Horse Art by Laurie Justus Pace

'Arabian in Red'

24 x 24 inches
Acrylic on Canvas

Contact me to purchase: Laurie

© Laurie Justus Pace Graphics One Design 2009

"If you give, you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full measure, pressed down, shaken together to make room for more and running over. Whatever measure you use in giving, large or small, it will be used to measure what is given back to you." Luke 6:38

The Painting: I continue to experiment this summer using my acrylics more. With this high humidity it is almost impossible to get oils to dry. I have never 'loved' acrylics, but with the situation as it is, I am learning more about them and their flexibility compared to oils. I have about decided they are as different as night and day. This painting began with pinks, oranges and reds washed thickly over the background. From there the layering of acrylics creates a wash and drip effect and thickening of layers provides contrast in both color and texture.

The Thought: Love isn't easy. Love isn't easy between spouses that have made a life long commitment under God to each other. Love isn't easy between parent and child. Love isn't easy with close family. Love isn't easy with your enemies either.

Right now I could say love is easy with our 5 month old granddaughter. She can't "hurt" us in any way that requires plotting and planning or even doing something stupid and not thought out. Seems like under a certain age, you are lovable unless you are not sleeping at night or you spend your day and night hours crying from colic. So, remind me again about Love? Love isn't easy.

Where would we be if God didn't continue to love us when we forgot about Him or when we continued in our negative ways? What if God coped that attitude, "She's too busy to give me anytime, so why should I hang around helping her out?" I would be in deep trouble.

We are living in times of growing distrust as families struggle to make ends meet. When we are under stress we quarrel more among ourselves. Tension thickens and feelings are hurt. Our nation seems to stay at war and yet we all long for peace, rest and quiet. Within us is the power of love, yet we rarely use it. In most of us, distrust and hate seem to surface the quickest when it is easy to lay blame for things on others; to point the finger away from ourselves. This is part of our sinful mind. We are always right. We are unwilling to give up our 'rights' and feel the need to repay those that do us wrong. Isn't that what was said in the old testament? An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth?

God shows us every day that He loves each of us despite what we do. We definitely don't deserve the love of God, or the grace of God, yet He is gracious with His mercy even when we are lost in our worldly ways. He is asking us to return to others what He gives to us... to love our enemies. To love those who hurt us, steal from us and persecute us. We are challenged to reflect the pureness of God's love to our world. Kindness is simply based on the love we have for others, not for the love we feel they deserve.

Give Love today....even when you have "judged" them unworthy of your love. Follow in His footsteps and extend an open heart with unconditional love.

Laurie

"Do you think you deserve credit merely for loving those who love you? Even the sinners do that! And if you do good only to those who do good to you, is that so wonderful? Even sinners do that that much! And if you lend money only to those who can repay you, what good is that? Even sinners will lend to their own kind for a full return. Love your enemies! Do good to them. Lend to them. And don't be concerned that they might not repay. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the Most High, for He is kind to the unthankful and to those who are wicked. You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate." Luke 6:32-36

Website, Laurie Justus Pace
Website, The Painted Pony
Blog, A Texas Contemporary Artist Where I post a thought for the day with my painting.
Blog, Wonders of the Heart

Galleries:
Jackson, Wyoming – The Rare Gallery
Penn Yan, New York—Earthworks Art Gallery
The Village of Granville, Ohio—The Gillian Jones Gallery
Marble Falls, Texas – Patina of Marble Falls
Dallas, Texas—The Dutch Art Gallery
Atascadero, California – The Red Tree Gallery
El Dorado Hills, California—Our House Gallery
Hong Kong – SR Gallery
Erie, Colorado – The Daily Painters
Dallas,Texas – The Daily Painters of Texas
Centennial, Colorado—The Daily Painters Abstract
Dallas, Texas - Artists of Texas

Organizations:
WAOW, Associate Member Women Artist Out West
OPA, Associate Member Oil Painters of America
AWS, American Watercolor Society
The Five Graces, 5Graces
Ask Art, Blue Book of Artists

16 July 2009

'White Arabian Nights' Large Horse Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

'White Arabian Nights'
30 x 30 inches Acrylic on Canvas

SOLD FROM BLOG! Thank you!

Contact me to purchase: Laurie

The Painting: Experimentation this week with this soft hued acrylic of a white Arabian. I may develop it more, I may not, but I am sharing it as it is at this moment. Thin layers of Liquetex Heavy Body Acrylics build on this composition.

The Thought: The word Promise comes to mind this morning. Have you ever broken a promise? If you have not, I would like to meet you. The word trips off of our lips as kids, "I promise not to do it again." Or the words of a distraught young pregnant teen, "But he promised he loved me."

Obviously a promise is of no more value than is the ability of the one who makes it, to actually carry it through. People change their minds and they do break promises. Often people just flat out lie and make promises. Through the Bible we are aware that God has made promises to us. He promises to supply every need we have. (not our wants...our needs). He has promised His grace would be sufficient for us. He promises victory over death as we saw in the resurrection of our Lord Jesus. He has promised all things will work together for the good of those who love and serve Him faithfully. His promises fill the pages of the Bible. He promises the forgiveness of our sins for those who believe in Christ and that they will be saved. He promises eternal life.

I came across a pretty neat place on the web: Olive Branch This author has a nice layout of promises from God to get you through anything. Take a peak, I did this morning and found some encouraging words for my own life. Sometimes it takes a quick reminder to get us back on track in our lives.

Laurie
" For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise." Hebrews 10:36

This is a video of Tink on the piano. Terry is holding her, Larry is filming and my mother, Gladys, her great grandmother, is singing with her.

Website, Laurie Justus Pace
Website, The Painted Pony
Blog, A Texas Contemporary Artist
Blog, Wonders of the Heart

Galleries:
Jackson, Wyoming – The Rare Gallery
Penn Yan, New York—Earthworks Art Gallery
The Village of Granville, Ohio—The Gillian Jones Gallery
Marble Falls, Texas – Patina of Marble Falls
Dallas, Texas—The Dutch Art Gallery
Atascadero, California – The Red Tree Gallery
El Dorado Hills, California—Our House Gallery
Hong Kong – SR Gallery
Erie, Colorado – The Daily Painters
Dallas,Texas – The Daily Painters of Texas
Centennial, Colorado—The Daily Painters Abstract
Dallas, Texas - Artists of Texas

Organizations:
WAOW, Associate Member Women Artist Out West
OPA, Associate Member Oil Painters of America
AWS, American Watercolor Society
The Five Graces, 5Graces
Ask Art, Blue Book of Artists

15 July 2009

'Playtime' Large Horse Painting by Laurie Pace

'Playtime'
24 x 36 x 2 inches
Acrylic on Canvas

Contact me to purchase: Laurie

The Painting: Frustration began this painting, but uniqueness finished it. I could not tell you the numbers of layers of paint on this one, but the weave of colors is unbelievable. There is no way for me to photograph what you actually see with this one. Liquetex Heavy Body Acrylics at their best. I am refraining from too many oils right now as the summer heat and humidity are so strong in Texas. 108 heat yesterday.

The Thought: Thaw Malin iii wrote on my Facebook yesterday. We are suppose to be on Vacation. Terry is spending it in front of his computer. I am a bit disappointed as it would have been nice to get away from this heat of 108. Thaw said there is a law that an artist paints better on vacation, so when there is a vacation...the artist must travel and paint. Not sure where it is written, so we have to call it the unwritten law of the artist.

I love the hand-me-down stories and laws of yesterday. Can you remember stories told to you by grandparents or parents? Sometimes I think we dream them up along the way in our lives... and they seem so true. My grandmother has been dead for over 30 years. I can still remember her story of a fire at their home in Germany. Something about her doll burned in the fire and she had to go stay at a cousin's home and they would not share their dolls. Now again, this many not be true, it is a bit of memory fading. I also remember her talking about the family had a candy store in the town of Baden. AND I think I remember that her father died impaled on a hay fork? Egads, where did all this come from... and how would I ever confirm or dispel the memory of the stories?

I am sure the stories in the bible are similar. So many were handed down before they were written. There has been much debate for example on the book of Genesis. Who wrote it? Adam and Eve definitely did not have the time or knowledge to keep a daily diary...and original thought was that Moses wrote the book and was sent the words from God. Today the thought was that he did not write Genesis, but that he compiled eye witness accounts of the characters in the texts of Genesis. Cuneiform Tablets have been discovered that date all the way back to 3500 BC. Adam might have written his own autobiography, or perhaps one of his children wrote it. The same thought with Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Joseph.... they probably recorded their own accounts and from these written tablets, Moses compiled his first book. All the events took place before Moses was born.

There is much to be gleaned from stories of old. Our family passes on German prayers with our little ones as they grow up. My German version slaughters the German language, but I joyfully slide over the words in my heart still today as they were spoken with every child every night. That was three times a night from the day I brought them home from the hospital. My mom is not big on family history. She lives today for today. As a history major in college, I draw a sense of presence from the past. It brought us all to where we are today.

Would it be good to record some thoughts? I wrote myself a letter in the sixth grade for me to open in my twenties. I had a good laugh but I recognized myself in those precious words of a 11 year old. Terry has all the notes I ever wrote him in junior high... and those are scary from the twisted mind of a teenage girl....but as an adult I have not secured time to journal and this is precious time right now. They say get knowledge as it leads to wisdom. There seems to be a change in the mind and body as you make your way through your fifties. It is a changing of the season of life. As you grow older you draw nearer to God and begin to realize the battle you have waged to be so independent has truly left you weary. Your comfort lies with Him.

Today I will challenge myself to the written word... how about you? Care to leave a little history behind for future generations?

Laurie

“If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father's commands and remain in his love." John 15:10

14 July 2009

'The Mighty' Large Equine Horse Painting by Laurie Pace

'The Mighty'

24 x 30 inches
Acrylic on Canvas
SOLD Just as I posted it!
Thank you.

Contact me to purchase: Laurie

The Painting: There is this feeling of coming together occasionally when you are working on a painting. The first step was a light watery layer of yellow acrylic. Then as that dried, a sketch of the positioning of the horse and then the colors begin to fall into place. Each one is applied with a knife pulling and contending against each other to find a position. There seems to come a time with art that it begins to be feeling and not intention. That is where I try to take my students, to the point where the inner child-like creativity oozes out controlled in slight limits by the knowledge base and principles of design and color. Within each composition lies areas of indisputable strength and might... and of course areas of the opposite of weakness and vulnerability.

The Thought: I received my first email today of someone that was not comfortable with my words of faith in my blog. My initial reaction was ... so don't read it. They were of different religious beliefs and took offense that I tie my work with my love for the Lord. So if for some reason you do not want to see the thought on your screen, I do have an alternate place for you to save as a favorite: http://texascontemporaryartist.blogspot.com. Here you can view only the art work and not my words of faith. I might not post there every day, but will try hard.

Vacation is upon us for one week, but Terry is still working on our bathroom. I am hoping it might make some headway this week. There is something about "trucking" down the hall to the hall bath in the middle of the night that is not my favorite.

I want to share with you that the Artists of Texas aka Daily Painters of Texas, has their new site up. www.artistsoftexas.org. It is such a pleasure working with so many professional artists as we weave together a community on the internet. We have scheduled our first show in October of this year with The Dutch Art Gallery here in Dallas. I think we have over 30 members right now.
For me the blessing has been getting to know better the Daily Painters from Texas on the main DP site by Micah Condon. www.dailypainters.com. It was from here we began with the Texas members and grew forward. Many of these artists I only knew by name and artwork. Now to have a working relationship with many of them has been an honor.

I am off to pack paintings... may you be blessed to be a blessing today.

Laurie

“Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”- Philippians 2:9-11

Website, Laurie Justus Pace
Website, The Painted Pony
Blog, A Texas Contemporary Artist
Blog, Wonders of the Heart

Galleries:
Jackson, Wyoming – The Rare Gallery
Penn Yan, New York—Earthworks Art Gallery
The Village of Granville, Ohio—The Gillian Jones Gallery
Marble Falls, Texas – Patina of Marble Falls
Dallas, Texas—The Dutch Art Gallery
Atascadero, California – The Red Tree Gallery
El Dorado Hills, California—Our House Gallery
Hong Kong – SR Gallery
Erie, Colorado – The Daily Painters
Dallas,Texas – The Daily Painters of Texas
Centennial, Colorado—The Daily Painters Abstract
Dallas, Texas - Artists of Texas

Organizations:
WAOW, Associate Member Women Artist Out West
OPA, Associate Member Oil Painters of America
AWS, American Watercolor Society
The Five Graces, 5Graces
Ask Art, Blue Book of Artists

13 July 2009

'Seven in the Rain' Contemporary Large Horse Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

'Seven in the Rain'
30 x 30 inches
Acrylic on Canvas

Contact me to Purchase: Laurie

© Laurie Justus Pace Graphics One Design 2009

"My child, listen to your father's teaching and do not forget yor mother's advice. Their teaching will be like flowers in your hair or a necklace around your neck." Proverbs 1:8-9

The Painting: This piece continues in my Colors of Summer in another large format canvas of 30 x 30 inches. The paint is again Liquetex Heavy Body Acrylics.

The Thought: Two birthdays in a row gives much room to weight gain. The hard loss of 8 lbs over the last 8 weeks... could be gained back easily. There sits in my refrigerator half of a wonderful chocolate cake. I keep reminding myself. NO.

A thought that has floated around in my head the last few days was something my Dad told me years and years ago. I was probably in my twenties or early thirties. He was always the "go to" when something needed to be figured out. He taught me early in life to makes a list. Pros and cons stacked next to each other. He also told me there would be a day in my life where he would not be there for me anymore and I needed to learn to lean on my heavenly Father. He said it was never to early to get a good start establishing that pattern.

My mother has also been a tremendous guide in life in shaping who I am. Her experiences brought her closer to our Father and she learned early in life that she had to lean on Him when her dad died in his early sixties. He was her confidant and friend. He was her father and her "go to" person.

I give thanks for such positive examples in my life as they both exemplify and embrace the love of God. My Dad suffers from Alzheimers. Each week we visit he fades a bit more. He has not known me in over a year. Last trip up he wasn't sure where my mom was and she was sitting in the car with him. God holds him tenderly in His arms right now. He is safe and loved and guarded by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Go out today and set this positive affirmation of the Father. Light the way for those around you to follow.

Laurie

“Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4

12 July 2009

'Seven Dancing Ponies' Horse Equine Art Painting by Laurie Pace

'Seven Dancing Ponies'

24 x 36 inches
Acrylic on Canvas
SOLD THANK YOU!
Contact me to purchase: Laurie

© Laurie Justus Pace Graphics One Design 2009

" When he told his father as well as his brothers, his father rebuked him and said, "What is this dream you had? Will your mother and I and your brothers actually come and bow down to the ground before you?" His brothers were jealous of him, but his father kept the matter in mind."
Genesis 37 10-11

The Painting: A playful scene of the highly collected Painted Ponies done on a large canvas 24 x 36 inches in size. Brilliant thick buttery Liquetex Heavy Body Acrylics piled brightly together in this unique painting.

The Thought: First I want to honor the day of my husband's birth... with a loving memory of his wonderful mother, Bobbie Jean, who died 14 years ago. It was in 1951 that she and Ben welcomed their first son (of three) on a hot July afternoon. This son has been the love of my life from a very early age... and I hold him close in heart all day on this his birthday. He has to work today, but last night we celebrated with family. Our daughter and her husband came over and whipped up a fabulous meal. All the kids came to celebrate their Pop's birthday and of course our granddaughter too.

Tomorrow is my mother's birthday as she turns the mile maker into her eighties. She remains a loved matriarch of our family with an open heart to life and living it to it's fullest.

Birthdays always trigger thoughts of past family occasions, and family occasions always trigger thoughts of joy and of struggle.

Researching the 'family' is always a deeply provoking subject. As far as families, you do not have to look far in the Bible to see sibling issues and family malfunctions. The tension oozes out from the pages as the bible focuses on family, communities and responsibilities of the individual as they struggle toward finding self worth. The families in the Bible were based on the patriarchal system. Families were centered in the men and especially the first born. References are found of "my father's house" with no mention of mom. It is around the father that the family group revolves forming its own community of sorts. Patriarchalism in the Bible was threaded with the concept of survival of the family or the tribe. It was a struggle to keep your identity intact and not be conquered. The children of the family ensured the survival of the name and the continuation of the family's strength in the community and a hold on their future.

In Genesis the "first" born child in the world was so jealous of the "second" born child, the first born killed the second born. This is of course the story of Cain and Abel.

Further into Genesis, a set of twins is born, and the second twin to arrive, steals the birthright of the first born. Reading further you find Joseph, the baby in the family. He was so hated by his siblings, they sold him into slavery. The poor father was left thinking his son had died. These are but a few "family" stories in the first book of the bible. Sibling rivalry has early roots.

It doesn't matter what the situation, family, work, or friends, you alone have control of your feelings and reactions to things in your life. When you are hurt, it is because you choose to be hurt. When you are angry it is because you choose to be angry. You cannot change other people and their actions, but you can change your reactions. You can choose... it is in your power. Don't let others steal your joy.

Laurie

"Then the LORD said to Cain, "Where is your brother Abel?"

"I don't know," he replied. "Am I my brother's keeper?"

The LORD said, "What have you done? Listen! Your brother's blood cries out to me from the ground. Now you are under a curse and driven from the ground, which opened its mouth to receive your brother's blood from your hand. When you work the ground, it will no longer yield its crops for you. You will be a restless wanderer on the earth." Genesis 4:9-12

Website, Laurie Justus Pace
Website, The Painted Pony
Blog, A Texas Contemporary Artist
Blog, Wonders of the Heart

Galleries:
Jackson, Wyoming – The Rare Gallery
Penn Yan, New York—Earthworks Art Gallery
The Village of Granville, Ohio—The Gillian Jones Gallery
Marble Falls, Texas – Patina of Marble Falls
Dallas, Texas—The Dutch Art Gallery
Atascadero, California – The Red Tree Gallery
El Dorado Hills, California—Our House Gallery
Hong Kong – SR Gallery
Erie, Colorado – The Daily Painters
Dallas,Texas – The Daily Painters of Texas
Centennial, Colorado—The Daily Painters Abstract

Organizations:
WAOW, Associate Member Women Artist Out West
OPA, Associate Member Oil Painters of America
AWS, American Watercolor Society
The Five Graces, 5Graces
Ask Art, Blue Book of Artists

11 July 2009

'Lush Blooms' Large Oil Flower Painting by Laurie Pace

'Lush Blooms'

24 x 24 inches
Oil on Canvas

SOLD Thank you!

Contact me to purchase: Laurie

"You should be a light for other people. Live so that they will see the good things you do and will praise your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:16

The Painting: This is part of my Backyard Blooms for 2009. It is a series where I am blocking the painting with acrylic before painting it in oils. It is a longer process but the painting seems richer for the extra time.

The Thought: I read something from "A Gentle Thunder" written by Max Lucado.

"You want to make a difference in your world? Live a holy life.

Be faithful to your spouse.
Be the one at the office who refuses to cheat.
Be the neighbor who acts neighborly.
Be the employee who does the work and doesn't complain.
Pay your bills.
Do your part and enjoy life.
Don't speak one message and live another.

People are watching the way we act more than they are listneing to what we say."

Max is such a gifted writer with a direct heart string to God. I have never picked up a book of his I didn't like.

Reflecting on this passage makes it seem simple. And it truly is simple. We make it more difficult on our own. I am the biggest complainer to my poor husband... I use to not be a complainer. I took ALL of it in stride and didn't say a word, but after years of marriage and a bit of aging, I have become more verbal of my feelings so I complain worse. That is something I need to work on daily.

The next one I fail miserably on is "do your part and enjoy life." I think every one else is doing this but I have totally forgotten what it is like to enjoy life. It seems like I work twenty four seven. Where is my trust in Him that He will provide? How do you draw the line in our human brain of "I am responsible for this, I have to work."?? Oh Lord, hear me, I would LOVE to take part of my day and forget everything around me and ENJOY LIFE. (... and the little voice inside says.. then you will have twice as much to do tomorrow.) What do you do about the little voice?

And the last one... eek, here I am sharing with you a message and I don't live it...Seems like it is time for an attitude adjustment.

There are those that slack off and don't take responsibility and they are definitely out there enjoying life. Then you have on the opposite side those that work and never take the time to live. Which one are you?

Read over that list above from Max....time for positive change.

Laurie

“being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6

Website, Laurie Justus Pace
Website, The Painted Pony
Blog, A Texas Contemporary Artist
Blog, Wonders of the Heart

Galleries:
Jackson, Wyoming – The Rare Gallery
Penn Yan, New York—Earthworks Art Gallery
The Village of Granville, Ohio—The Gillian Jones Gallery
Marble Falls, Texas – Patina of Marble Falls
Dallas, Texas—The Dutch Art Gallery
Atascadero, California – The Red Tree Gallery
El Dorado Hills, California—Our House Gallery
Hong Kong – SR Gallery
Erie, Colorado – The Daily Painters
Dallas,Texas – The Daily Painters of Texas
Centennial, Colorado—The Daily Painters Abstract

Organizations:
WAOW, Associate Member Women Artist Out West
OPA, Associate Member Oil Painters of America
AWS, American Watercolor Society
The Five Graces, 5Graces
Ask Art, Blue Book of Artists

10 July 2009

'Sunflower Fusion' Abstract Sunflower Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

'Sunflower Fusion'

15 x 30 inches
Oil on Canvas

SOLD

Contact me for Commission Work: Laurie

"The Lord God made clothes from animal skins for the man and his wife and dressed them." Genesis 3:21

The Painting: Another archival piece from 2005. I did paint yesterday, but I did not take pictures yet. I am about a half a day behind. This is an abstract oil which to me was a sunflower bursting out in rays.

The Thought: I am back to tough love and the things we face in life. Tough love for ourselves and our sins as well as for those we love. When you read the verse above it seems simple enough. This is after Adam and Eve had an afternoon break of sharing an apple in the garden. They know they are naked and they are ashamed so their Father takes care of them out of love and provides clothes....

ahah but wait, clothes? From where? Animals skins? That means the first animal gave it's life for man and man's stupidity of not listening to the rules. Someone/something else suffers because of our choices. The fresh dirt of earth is now newly blood stained with innocent blood. The animal committed no sin and did not deserve to die.

God took the skins of the animals and fashioned clothes for Adam and Eve. So woman was not the first fashion designer. ...Then God dressed them. Just as a mother would dress a child before sending them to school, God protectively dressed Adam and Eve, and sent them out into the world, forever banished from the garden.

God's love protects us despite our inappropriate daily choices. Even when we seem to mean well, we step off the path and often struggle to find our way back. God's Love protects us.

Laurie

"For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom His whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us," Ephesians 3:14-20