Introduction:

IThank you for venturing forth and exploring Visio Divina.  This book explores the art works of Diane J. McGarel, its meaning, and how Visio Divina can enhance your prayer life. 

The First Chapter examines love, its meaning and its significance to our relationship with God.  The next chapters analyze what can rob us of joy.  A life full of busyness, perfectionism, and worry are just of the few ills that can corrupt our hearts and relationships.  Each chapter contains helpful hints and suggestions for ridding us of these self destructive behaviors.   Chapter Four explores the healing power of prayer.  

The last chapter is for the artist in all of us by giving us /easy to follow step by step instructions of how to paint trees, skies, and rocks.  This book energizes and empowers artists and amateurs alike by providing them the tools to create. 

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This book uses a principle called Visio Divina which is similar to Lectio Divina (divine reading), but instead of Scripture, this form of prayer uses visual images as a way of connecting to God.

All of us connect to God in different ways because we are uniquely wired.  Since some of us respond best to the written word, some to the spoken word, some to music, some to art, and some to movement, it’s great to explore different avenues that will help you communicate with the Lord.   

For me prayer thru art is one way I can feel a special closeness to God.   By creating it gives me the freedom to freely express myself.  It helps quiet my mind so I can hear God more clearly.  I pray Visio Divina can do the same for you, help you find a place of comfort and healing.


Steps to Visio Divina:
1.  Examine the painting in its entirety.  Then explore each section in relationship to its whole.  
 
2.  Now contemplate these questions:
       Does the imagery remind you of any Bible verses?
       What emotions does this image evoke in you?
       Does this image bring forth any memories?
       How would you describe this image to a friend?      

3:  Express to God what you are feeling.   Ask God to reveal to you its meaning and what He wishes you to learn from each art piece.         

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TABLE OF CONTENTS


Artist Statement ..........................................................................  1

Getting Acquainted .....................................................................  2

Exploring Visio Divina ...............................................................   5


Chapter One:  
Under the Protection of God’s Love ...................................... 7


Chapter Two:  
Seven Minutes In-Between ......................................................26


Chapter Three:  
Mending Brokenness ................................................................  32


Chapter Four:
 Prayer ...............................................................................................58


Chapter Five:
Techniques .................................................................................. ...64


Author’s Influences ....................................................................  75

 

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When viewing the painting entitled, Under, do you feel as if the figure in this art piece wishes to be seen or remain hidden?  Notice how the figure has its back to you with his face hidden, why do you think that is?  I think we all have been there, trying to be noticed and at the same time hiding our true selves from the world. Perhaps that is why, on social media most of us post perfect pictures highlighting only our perfect moments.  We all have this common longing to be loved, known, and accepted in spite of our flaws, but do we let others especially our loved ones see our flaws?  

I know at times I lack the courage to show others my true self but in art, that has never been the case.  In art I am free to express myself without any free of rejection.  

Underneath the figure’s head is a white curved line, the painting’s focus point.  The line curves, almost like 1/2 a cross.  The beginnings of awareness of who they are in-Christ and knowing that Jesus didn’t die on the cross for someone else’s sin but for their own sin.    

The painting’s colorings are those typically associated with resurrection, purple and yellow, but unlike the norm, these colorings in this artwork are muted, somewhat somber.  It’s an awaking, a re-birth which can be exciting as well as frightening all at the same time.  Yellow daps of paint on the figures’ head and through-out its body displays a sense of hopefulness as well as optimism.  

At times, more than I would like to admit, my circumstances are  controlled by what I am feeling.  I am learning to let go of this rollercoaster way of life.  The more I walk with Christ, the more I am able not to let my life be dictated by emotions.  Day by day, I am gaining the security.  Knowledge in His ways and believing that no matter what, God loves me and will be there for me always. He knows what’s best.  Only when I can fully trust in His love can I have peace.
 

                                                                                              page 15

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Rain appears above and below the umbrella.  It surrounds the figure symbolizing that God never promised His followers a problem free life.  As a matter of fact the opposite is true- a Christ Follower would have trouble.  In the latter part of John 16:33, it is written  “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”  What God promises us in Deuteronomy 31:6 is that “God goes with you; He will never leave you or forsake you.”  

Remember the time, in Matthew 14:23-33,  when the Apostle Peter walked on the water?   Peter began to sink when he focused on the wind as opposed to focusing on Jesus.  Then Jesus held out his hand leading Peter back into the boat making sure Peter didn’t take his eyes off Him. The wind didn’t stop till Peter was back in the boat.  You see, Jesus didn’t stop the wind, He was right there with Peter in the midst of the storm helping and leading him where he would be safe.  Jesus comforted Peter in the storm but did not take the storm away.   

In this painting, I wanted to show the rain surrounding the figure even though the figure was underneath the protection of the umbrella.  Illustrating that His love for us is never-ending and will be with us in our deepest battles.  Not so much that such and such tragedy will never happen but more so, if it were, the worst thing you can imagine can happen to you, does happen to you, God never forsakes you.  He knows and feels our pain.  

Now here is something we will never know the why.  This is where faith comes in.  As a follower of Christ, we must trust enough to have the faith of His love whether or not we see the evidence here on earth.  Bad things do happen to good people.  How I wished they didn’t but they sadly do.  

Loving God is letting go and letting Him be in charge. 

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