05/21/2026
Well, it looks like I haven't shared the story of the REASON behind why I create the artwork the way I do in a couple years... so here goes..❤️ I might be finishing in the comments if Instagram cuts me off. 😅
When I was a child, I received the gift of a small plaque of framed parchment paper with the words of John 3:16 printed on it, along with MY name. "For God so loved JENNIFER, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life." WOW. I was very familiar with that verse, but after reading that plaque it hit me that God not only loves the whole world, but even ME personally. Seeing that scripture personalized with my name and the word ETERNAL resonated with me at a deep level. A lightbulb of understanding connected in my heart that John 3:16 is God's plan to redeem the sinful world to Himself, and that "the world" includes me. The special older lady that gifted it to me has since passed away, and when I arrive in heaven I can't wait to be greeted by her and rejoice with her that God used her simple gift as one piece of the puzzle (amongst several other people/things) to draw me to Himself for salvation and a commitment of my life to Him. Since then, I've hand lettered and given John 3:16 personalized as gifts to children of special friends and family members over the years. I also painted it on the walls of both of my children's baby rooms. Every time I lettered and gifted it, it went with the prayer that they would also come to know the very personal love God has for them.
A few years ago, I printed out several different scriptures personalized with my mom's name and gave them to her. I saw the impact the simple heartfelt gift had on her, and the power seeing her name with scripture had.
Also about 10 years ago I started Bible journaling and it was the key to linking my creativity to my faith and it exploded my relationship with the Lord! I discovered a way to worship that I just can't express in words. I also discovered how fun it is to give God the glory and encourage others with my artwork on Instagram. (Cont. in comments)