Last week I finished this painting of a rocking chair in a log cabin. The chair is sitting outside in on the porch that divides the two sections of the old structure.
What captured my attention and led to this painting was the simplistic peacefulness of the scene. No TV’s, computers, smartphones, game consoles, notifications, Twitter, Facebook, or children’s toy commercials.
Granted, back in those “good ol’ days” there were no air-conditioning, motorized transportation, safety razors, microwaves, or anti-biotics, either. I like those things!
But what I do wish I had, and what this painting reminds us of, is peace and calm.
Even back in then, when most things required far more labor than today, a time came for rest. When the sun began to set, and the crickets began to sing, that rocking chair provided someone with a place of contemplation as a warm breeze wafted away the stress of the day.
Where to we find that kind of rest today? Where can we find that kind of peace? In many ways, quite honestly, it’s nothing more than a sentimental dream. However, even though our bodies may wind up more worn down and unhealthy due to our modern culture’s never-ending rat race, our souls should not have to be stressed or frazzled.
“Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. “Take up my yoke and learn from me, because I am lowly and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. “For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Jesus – Matthew 11:28-30 CSB
You may not have access to an old wooden rocking chair in a cozy log cabin, but you do have access to Jesus. Crawl up in His arms and let Him rock you a while.
Wall Hole Coverings - the Art of Anthony C. Baker 