When my niece recently sent me a photo of her desk, I laughed. It’s an image that many of us can relate to. Whether you’re someone who operates best with a clean desk, or someone who works best with “everything in sight,” the obvious metaphor is one that speaks to the chaos and complexity of our lives. Work and pleasure, anxiety and comfort, what we reveal and what we conceal; all those things and more are captured in this image.

While painting this still life, I appreciated how each element adds up to tell a story about living. I thought how I’m deceived if I think I am in control, even when looking at a clean “desk.”

If we’re honest with ourselves, circumstances are rarely in our control, but praise God, He is there in every situation when we make our concerns known to Him.

Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

oil on canvas 20x24