For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.
2 Corinthians 8:9
After talking with several people about this painting I came to realize that I should be sharing the story behind the painting with everyone.
This painting was painted right after I found out that a friend of mine, Vanessa Whitwell past away from a brain hemorrhage at the age of 34. I say friend, even though I never hung out with her outside of work, because after meeting Vanessa you could not help but call her anything else. She was one of those amazing people you meet that light up a room with their personality and style, and envy that you could have that much drive and determination. I had the pleasure of working with her at Fellowship Church. She started at Fellowship as one of our worship leaders. Singing every weekend with one of the most beautiful voices you will ever her. Soon after began to lead in other ministries as well, like the women's ministry and our C3 conferences. She touched thousands of lives with her gifts and her love for God. She accomplished more in her short life than most of us would ever hope to in a hundred years. She had a love for life and her work that showed in everything that she did.
Fellowship church said it best in this press release, "Vanessa approached her relationships with a sincere kindness and with a genuine heart for those in need. Known as an encourager and a consummate cheerleader, Vanessa lived with a passionate ferocity for life spreading joy and laughter along the way. She had a strong faith that dictated her choices, and sense of self that empowered all who came in contact with her."
The first show I had it at I sold it. I spoke with a women at the show it for what seemed liked hours. She loved it and was thinking of buying it for her brother who just got married and was starting a new job at a camp their church was opening this summer. Her brother just happened to work at Fellowship and worked closely with Vanessa. I knew him as well and knew he would love it. She did buy it for him as a wedding present. So the original painting found a home not only with someone who could appreciate it for it's beauty but also love it for who it symbolized. For those of us who had the pleasure of meeting Vanessa Whitwell you will understand just how "rich" we have become just from knowing her.
God sure has a great way of bringing us all together.
I am releasing a limited edition print of this painting (only 100 will be made). 20% of the proceeds will go to the Vanessa Whitwell Scholarship Fund. This scholarship will afford many students and young women the opportunity to attend various camps, retreats and events where they will experience the hope and love of Jesus Christ. If you are interested you can contact me here on my blog, or check out My Shop
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