ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

So many songs have been written about the mountains, streams, valleys. All of these describe a perfect oasis – a refuge from the crushing noise of civilization – a sanctuary where you can be alone with God and express your greatest needs to Him in prayer. You have access to the Almighty.
Artists’ renditions of these remarkable locations can almost transport you to them. Words cannot sufficiently verbalize all the beauty that these places contain. The above painting comes from the mind of a talented man, who loved nature – found solace there – had a special connection with God – photographed these places in his brain for future reference. Being there is the only way to feel the contentment God intended for our pleasure. Being there through the art my husband created takes me there. Thank you, Paul.

Where do you find contentment when all around seems lost,

In city streets so dimly lit, at an expensive cost,

In valleys green where water pours through rivers pure and clean,

In waters deep, that wind and creep and keep the valley green,

In the darkness of the soul within, is that where you find peace,

In a sanctuary built of stone, where your problems you release,

Do you see it in the people that you greet most every day,

Is it in the quiet laughter of a child alone at play,

Is it in the calm serenity of music, art or dance,

Or does it come from looking at your love’s sweet, smiling glance,

Don’t search in darkest corners, you’ll never find it there,

The light that shines from heaven, has vanquished all your care.

But ask the beasts, and they will teach you;
    the birds of the heavens, and they will tell you;
or the bushes of the earth, and they will teach you;
    and the fish of the sea will declare to you.
Who among all these does not know
    that the hand of the Lord has done this?
In his hand is the life of every living thing
    and the breath of all mankind.

Job 12:7-10