"Behold Your Little Ones" (2016, Oil on Canvas 24"x36")
This painting was commissioned by my wonderful mother who is one of the most selfless people I have ever met. She raised us reading from the scriptures as a family every night before we went to bed. Every time we read 3 Nephi Chapter 17 she would get very emotional. The Savior tells the people, "Behold your little ones" after he had blessed the children one by one. Then the angels descend and encircle the little children. So it was no surprise to me that when I presented ideas to my mother she loved the idea of me painting a scene of the Savior with little children.
I used my own children used as models for this painting. Painting them with the Savior has helped me see them with new perspective when they test my patience. I have reflected on this painting and at times have felt an added measure of patience as I think of how the Savior would treat my children in my situation. I reflect on the scripture and feel he is asking me to behold, or see, my little ones as he sees them.
My hope is that those who see the painting will feel the Savior's love for each of his children as I have while painting it. These little ones can teach us so much and can show us how to love and forgive the way the Savior does.
