This was painted during the time of the Covid 19 pandemic.  New Zealand had managed to get through 2020 with the expectation that we were through the worst of it and we were united as a country and we were proud of how we had done compared to other nations.  However, as we know, things changed and anger grew.  Our nation seemed to feel quite a bit darker and divided.  Families were divided and people were stressed.  I remember not really even knowing how to pray, but did a lot of sighing.  Prayers would start with a sigh, and finish with ‘Dear Lord…’ and not have any words.

One of my most favourite quotes is from St. Francis of Assisi.  The first section really speaks volumes and I found that I read it quite often during this time.  It gave me direction on what I could do.  It starts:

“Lord, make me an instrument of your peace;

Where there is hatred, let me sow love;

Where there is injury, pardon;

Where there is despair, hope;

Where there is darkness, light;

And where there is sadness, joy.”

I was thinking how even just a small light can make a difference in darkness, and therefore how an act of kindness and grace can be like light during dark times for someone.  By doing so we would be God’s instruments of peace.

“Matthew 5:14-16 “You are the light of the world.  A city on a hill cannot be hidden.  Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl.  Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.  In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”