In 1893 French Impressionist Claude Monet bought land with a pond near his home in Giverny. He imagined it would be a venue rich in motifs for his art. What he imagined was realized in the water lily series. Monet did more than 250 paintings of water lilies, most during the last 30 years of his career. Many of these works are quite large measuring 12’ by 12’. They represent Monet’s dedication to color and light. Our selection for this writing is filled with these and implies the depths beneath the water’s surface. Claude Monet’s paintings grace the walls of museums round the world and each is valued in the millions.

Water Lilies: Morning seems an invitation into the quiet of a morning when light is muted and colors are rich and true, not yet altered by the sun’s brightness. Here Monet seems to have painted an exquisite deep breath against the louder, faster portions of our days. It seems a moment of soft clarity when we can consider what is beneath the surface of our experience and what this requires of our faith. May we return to this morning moment often and give thanks to the God of all.

In gratitude, faith and hope,