It took me about 12 hours to paint. Naomi asked me if I could paint my watercolor called "Open Doors" into a big picture. Audio Scriptures theme for the year has been open doors. We pray everytime we are together for open doors and on our own as a team.
I finally finished the acrylic painting and needed a box to ship it to Naomi. When I went to the post offices I was sent to another store to buy the right kind of box. It was going to take three trips. Ugh.
When I walked into the box store, there were three young men lounging on the boxes while one man was working behind the counter. I wondered if it was their break. As I waited, I was surprised at the "F" bombs lacing their conversations. At first my reaction was to want to turn around and suggest alternative words. My second thought was, "Yeah not wise!" Then I was a little unnerved that employees were behaving in such a manner in front of a customer. And how they just let the other guy do all the work. After waiting for "J" to finish a transaction with a very frustrated face. I realized he was helping them.
Phew! They were customers. I felt better for "J" and then also sad because "ugh" there really wasn't any respect happening.
As they walked out, he asked me, "How can I help you?"
"I need a box to ship my painting."
He walked me over to a row of piled boxes and we picked the closest in size and then we walked back to the counter. Then "J" said, "Can I see it? Did you paint it?"
"I did. I painted it for my boss/friend. I am a missionary with Audio Scripture Ministries and this painting represents Open Doors."
I then told him the key verse I envisioned as I painted it.
"I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name." Revelation 3:8
"Oooh! What is a missionary?"
"Hmmm. Well, I train and tell people about the Bible so they can know that God values them and has a plan for them. I show them how to engage the Scriptures so they know how to have eternal life and then how to tell others about Jesus."
"My girlfriend is religious, but I am not."
"Would you like for me to share with you a little of what God would like you to know?"
"Yes." He nodded his head.
I then gave a short impromptu telling of the Big God Story emphasizing value and relationship so we can know Him and be with Him through His Son Jesus.
His face was so humble and sincere. I was able to see how the story was penetrating. Precious! Especially, in contrast to the young men who just left the store.
When I finished he said, "I believe that!"
Then the phone rang. He had to get back to work.
I never asked him for a response, but he gave it. So, the very first time, I shared my painting called "Open Doors" with its story, it led to an open door into a human heart.
Feeling very humbled and blessed. I love how God opens doors! He even uses a reroute to a different store so someone can know Him.
*Image shared is of the watercolor that prompted the painting. I am not revealing the painting yet.
