4. "Nativity on a Seashell"

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“The Nativity in a Seashell”

The Nativity on a simple seashell reflects the poverty of the moment. It also reflects God’s gentle entry into the world.

We “see” this in the image of the infant Jesus, wrapped in swaddling clothes. He is being watched over by his Mother, Mary. There are no angels, no shepherds; not even Joseph is present. Mary is raising her hands in a welcoming gesture, the Father’s gift and her gift to the world.

I painted this image as a Christmas gift for our Superior General, Fr. William Steckling, OMI. I was a member of the General Council at the time.

I had stopped painting icons because I allowed my work to sap all my energy. I gradually discovered that even my prayer life was suffering because of my ministry.

With the help of God and my brother Oblates, I began the struggle to get back a balance in my life.

“The Nativity in a Seashell” was a little but important step in the right direction. I had to make time to paint again, to draw on the life-giving source of the prayer and meditation that is needed while writing an icon or doing anything we are called by God to do.

Lord, Jesus, Thank You for always giving us a chance to begin again!