“Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.’” Luke 2:13,14
This painting began in corporate worship at a major conference where I sensed a significant awakening and a shift in perspective. I prayed into the shift as I continued to paint this one in the studio for a young couple in ministry. I painted in both vivid colours and muted tones over several days, stopping often and asking the Holy Spirit for direction –– bright or subtle?
It seemed the essence of this work is both. Oil and water! The Spirit reminded me that oil and water do mix. At a time when I once questioned whether two disparate characteristics could come together, He showed me the oil and water amalgamating in the rain on the asphalt at a petrol service station. The resulting iridescence was beyond this world. The shimmering opalescent colours and patterns could never be reproduced in a painting, but here was proof that oil and water do mix exquisitely. The more I painted the more obvious the two realms on the canvas became, and then I ‘saw’ a new perspective. That once seen, can’t be unseen. In one stroke it made sense. The Lord has His eyes simultaneously on all of heaven and all of earth.
Firstly, the contrast speaks of diverse individuals, who by joining forces have become much more powerful than the sum of the total. Faith added to faith. “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:19,20. ‘Agree’ in Greek is sumphoneo, also the word for ‘symphony’. Multiple musical instruments can do what one cannot. As you agree, recognising each other’s unique role, you come into harmony. Harmony does not mean the same, but it does mean unity. Oil and water can come into accord without becoming the same.
Secondly, together in unity, you can lift the veil so that others may see into heaven. You can shift focus, shift perspective, and see what God is doing in the earthly realm. You will see through a God-lens. You will be able to make sense where others see no sense. You will walk with God and minister with Him in full awareness of the heavenly host that accompany you, and you’ll be cheered on by great crowds of witnesses. Look up and see all who are with you are more than those against you.
Many stories can be found in the painting and its layers will continue to reveal His glory. He is breathing His peace over your chaos. The ‘faces’ of heaven and earth meet in His blood. The hills hold green and white orbs representing the tribes of Israel on either side of the Jordan, the dandelions are His promise of faithfulness, and the seeds represent promises to come.
