We painted at the kitchen table. A variety of colors laid out in front of us. Shades with names that we did not know existed. We each had our own canvas, where we painted from the heart. The world seemed quiet and still. Though in the silence an occasional special conversation would come up. It is moments like these that bring my heart just the right amount of joy and peace. I hope to always have these extra special moments with my youngest son. I look at our finished art and though it is beautiful; it is a reflection of the beauty of our quality time spent with a mom and her son. The time spent painting was so much more than the canvas and paint. For we were not just creating pictures, but memories. My oldest and I like to play trivia together. He is actually really good at it and often he wins. Though as we are challenging our minds and learning new things; it is a way we can connect and make memories. What is not fun about being a teenager and having some friendly competition to build character? My husband and I enjoy just sitting and talking about anything and everything. Though when we talk, we are not just saying words, we are building up our relationship. Whether I am painting with my youngest, playing a game with my oldest or having an important or heartfelt talks with my husband; in all of that I am building a relationship with them. I am letting them know I value them and their time; they too, are letting me know that as well.

    So often we take the time to build on the relationships with those we love and hold near and dear. This is so very important. It reminded me that we also need to make sure we are building our relationship with God too. This is all so vital too. Taking the time, daily, to spend time with Him. Reading scripture, devotionals, prayer, anything and everything that connects us to Him.

   Friend, we must continue to build on those relationships with others; loving them well. Just like God has called us to. We must also especially remember to build on our relationship with our loving God. For if we love someone, do we not invest in them? If we love God, we must invest in Him too. Just like He invests in us and so lovingly waits to build on the relationship with us, as His children.

Erin Fitts-Brower

Matthew 22:37-39 NIV

Jesus replied: “’Love the Lord your God with all you heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it:’ Love your neighbor as yourself.

Psalm 42:1 NLT

As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God.