This is an illustration titled "Soiree" by Andrea Kowch. I am drawn to her work because it has a quality to it that is familiar, but slightly "off". Even though this painting looks like the natural world, it is rich in symbolism revealing more than is what initially seen. This genre of art is known as Magical Realism. It is used in art and literature to reveal realities beyond the natural realm. 

As a Christian I know that there is more than the natural world. I don’t deny facts and data. Lists have their place, but the Bible tells me there is more to seek and understand. And my spirit tells me it is worth the pursuit. 1 Corinthians 2:9, But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him” - these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit.

The spiritual world is all around us. Unseen forces battle as history is made. One example is when the beautiful Esther became a queen for “just a time as this” and she changed a kings mind. In 2 Kings, Elisha's servant was no longer afraid when he saw God's mighty heavenly army. Today a mother heeds an unheard word and stops her work to pray for a child she senses needs protection. 

The Bible, the one source of truth, also speaks to the idea that there is more to reality than what can be seen in the natural world. The spiritual realm is real, and it’s important for us to be mindful of it. Jesus’ death and then defiance of natural law by his resurrection, has brought salvation. The truth is that there is so much more to God than what we usually see. 

Colossians 1:16
For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him for him.