Take a Leap Of Faith
Moving to Huntsville, Alabama during the pandemic three years ago was a scary yet truly unique experience. Not only did I have to adjust to the “new normal'“ of life during the pandemic, but I also had to buy and sell a home in two different states. Despite the uncertainty and anxiety of this time, I am so thankful that it is behind us!
As I settled into our new life in Huntsville, I had the opportunity to learn about this fascinating city’s deep-rooted history in the space industry. Huntsville earned its nickname, “The Rocket City,” 🚀 and it is easy to see why—just drive down Interstate 565, and you will soon be greeted by the towering Saturn V Rocket, visible for miles through the city and atop Blevin’s Gap lookout. Not to mention, Huntsville is also home to the late Miss Baker, a squirrel monkey 🐒 into space in 1959 and now buried at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center. 🚀 To this day, visitors can find one or more bananas resting atop her tombstone in her memory.
As an artist, I am enamored with the idea of honoring my new home by creating an Alabama Series of paintings. To begin, I am captivated by the idea of painting an astronaut. The parallels between an astronaut’s experience and our own lives are remarkable. Both require a courageous leap of faith, involve unseen dangers, and potential for great rewards, and demand diligent preparation. But the risks are worth taking as daunting as these journeys may be. This painting 🖼️ is sure to be an inspiring reminder of the power of faith, courage, and hard work.
Astronauts 👩🏻🚀 and everyday people alike face similar challenges, but with different rewards. Astronauts must prepare for the dangers of space: radiation, microgravity, and hostile environments, but they have the chance to make history and explore the unknown of unchartered territories in space, gaining knowledge about the universe. On the other hand, we here on Earth must prepare for dangers of our own: temptation, heartache, and persecution. Whether it’s sin, illness, death, financial hardship, going to college, starting a business, or taking a risk on a new career path, we all must take leaps of faith, prepare for the risks, and be open to potential rewards. The most rewarding outcome of all is choosing God, becoming our best, and reaching our full ‘mighty oak’ potential. We must trust ourselves and have faith in God that we can do anything, especially with God’s help to see us through any challenge. For Christians, faith is an essential part of their journey with God. Trust in Him and His promises allows us to take bold steps into the unknown. And if we are right with God, we can look forward to the ultimate reward of eternal life and the joy of a relationship with God. So let’s take a risk and fight the good fight of faith (1 Timothy 6:12)!
Do you feel ready to take a leap of faith in God? If you take this bold step, you can be sure that He will lead and direct every step of your journey. When you view this painting of an astronaut, may it be a reminder of God’s immense love and strength that is available to all who trust in Him. His love ❤️ is unending, and He will be your rock, refuge, fortress, 🏰 and strength even in the midst of storms ⛈️ (Psalm 46:1 and Psalm 18:2). Take heart and have faith that God will carry you through; trust in Him, His word, and believe—you won’t be disappointed.
XO,
Amy, the Artist 🎨 (Simply Creative Blog ✍🏻)
Scripture for Thought:
‘Faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of God.’ —Romans 10:17 (We grow in faith as we meditate on God’s word.)
‘Faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.’—Hebrews 11:1
‘Without faith, it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. —Hebrews 11:6
