The Storyteller
We all love a good storyteller; but, there is one storyteller that took the world by storm and paved the way for each one of us to have a relationship with God … and that would be Jesus.
I do not paint as often as I have in the past, although I love when I’m immersed in the paint, my music, and a canvas on my easel; however, this past year, God placed it on my heart to create this painting … I listened.
“The Storyteller”
More than just this painting, my life changed dramatically. I feel called to create for Christ.
“Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 19:14 (ESV)
I often imagine what it must have been like to sit at the feet of Jesus.
Not among the crowds pressing in for miracles.
Not among the religious leaders asking difficult questions.
But as a child…
Listening.
Watching His hands as He told stories of seeds and shepherds, sparrows and lilies, lost sheep and hidden treasure. Every word carried eternal truth, yet every child could understand His love.
When I painted The Storyteller, I wanted to capture more than a biblical scene. I wanted to paint the invitation Jesus still extends today—to come close, to listen, to trust Him with childlike faith.
Notice the children. Each one is different. Some lean in with eager anticipation. Others quietly ponder His words. One smiles with delight while another listens with thoughtful wonder. Just as every child gathered around Jesus was known by name, each of us is uniquely seen and deeply loved by Him.
Jesus never considered children an interruption. He welcomed them.
He blessed them.
He held them close.
In a world that often tells us to grow stronger, wiser, and more self-sufficient, Jesus reminds us that the Kingdom belongs to those who come with humble, trusting hearts.
My prayer is that this painting points beyond itself to the greatest Story ever told—the story of God’s redeeming love through His Son, Jesus Christ.
May it remind you to slow down, draw near to the Savior, and hear His voice once again.
“But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.'”
— Matthew 19:14 (ESV)
“And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.”
— Mark 10:16 (ESV)
“Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.”
— Mark 10:15 (ESV)
