“To know the worth of the Anchor, we need to feel the strength of the storm.”

One of the treasures I have is my Mawmaw’s Bible. The pages are worn, the binding has been taped together, and most importantly, she wrote her favorite quotes and hymns on the front flap. Mawmaw suffered greatly from severe rheumatoid arthritis. I have sweet members of painting her nails and holding her crippled hands. She couldn’t write or hold a pen well once the arthritis had taken it’s toll on her body. Any words we have that she wrote are precious treasures.

Mawmaw knew suffering well.She was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis after being sick from a throat infection. Later in life she had a surgery that caused her leg to be infected. In order to survive, she had to choose to lose her leg. The pain and loss she went through is almost unbelievable. She always reminded me of Job who suffered much, but also praised much. Job 23:10 says “But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.” Next to this verse she wrote “His purpose in suffering.”

My Mawmaw truly was a woman of gold. Her life reflected the glory of God and her smile radiated His beauty and joy. I have never known of someone who loved more deeply and lived more fully than her. She truly knew the storms of the life and that Jesus, her Anchor, would bring her through safely.

I painted this picture in honor of her. I don’t know the trials you face, and many of us don’t know what lies ahead, but we can know that through our suffering, God will be faithful. When the storm rages and waves are crashing all about you, know that Jesus is with you. May this art remind you that our Anchor is firm and sure. Our Anchor is Jesus…forever.

Your Sister,

Gretchen

(You can purchase prints and stationery here!)