My children recently had an art showcase from their school, that we had the privilege to attend. There were skits performed, music that was played, and various types of art pieces on display. It was a lovely evening filled with so many talents, from all different age groups. Each kid showcasing their God-given gifts and abilities. I was proud of not just my own kids, but all of the children! There is something so wonderful about watching people shine with the gifts that God gives them. It was like being in an art gallery, with so many great pieces.

However, there was an art project on display that one of my children did, that I know he initially did not want to do. He was put to the challenge of completing it though and to doing his best. Ultimately, it turned out so cool! Sometimes when we are put to a challenge, it is so easy to want to resist. Though if we persevere it is incredible what we can accomplish. To anybody that looked at his art hanging up on the wall, they would have assumed he was a natural and that it came easy to him. Though it may not have been easy of his favorite, his dedication to putting forth his best, paid off. His piece showed talent that was waiting to be unlocked. I am sure that my son was not the only one of these students that were put to a challenge and succeeded beautifully.

Sometimes when things challenge us, we want to give up. Although when we do as we are instructed from our teacher; it is amazing what we can accomplish. What gifts may lay hidden. As I am writing this, I am thinking about showcase and all the talent that I had that blessing to experience. I am grateful for the kids that put in all the work into their art; even for those in which may have been put to the challenge. For through their hard work and dedication, as with all things in life; the effort paid off into quite the masterpiece.

Friend, sometimes God calls us to a challenge; because He knows what we are capable of and with His help, it is amazing what we can do. I cannot wait to hang on the wall what my son created. What started out as something hard to do; will hang on our wall as a masterpiece. For when we accept the challenge to do our best, there is always something beautiful in that.

Erin Fitts-Brower

Ecclesiastes 9:10 NIV

Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.