thoughts of grace
inspiration and hope for troubled times
by
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The news was delivered like a blow on the chest by a heavy, fisted hand.
We were sitting at the table completing our evening meal when he looked at me and, without emotion, spoke the cold, heartless words, “I don’t have loving feelings for you anymore.”
I could not have been more shocked. Married for 32 years, with three adult children, I thought our marriage was totally secure. I was a very happy homemaker and professional artist. I had given my life joyously in raising our children and in being a helpmeet, admiring, supporting and encouraging my husband throughout his career and professional transitions. Then, in less than a minute, that utterance changed my life forever.
I tried everything to put the pieces back together, but finally had to conclude that the nightmare was real. A few months later he walked out the door with his belongings.
Ours had been a Christian home. What had gone wrong?
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About the Book
When her husband of 32 years announces that he no longer has loving feelings for her, Grace is completely blindsided. Theirs had been a Christian home. What had gone wrong? With no answers, only questions, she turns to God, desperate for help and healing. Through searching His Word, praying and using the artistic gifts God gave her, Grace rediscovers the peace, confidence and joy that only He can give. Here, she shares her story of anguish, encouragement and inspiration with the hope of helping others in a time of crisis.
Grace has the ability to draw you into God’s Word in a fresh way, weaving Scriptures among her artistic painting and delighting us with creative information about flowers.
Out of her personal pain, she has allowed God to transform her into His likeness, each brush stroke drawing her closer to the One who heals every heartache. Whether you have a few minutes or a few hours to meditate on God’s powerful scriptures and enjoy her creative artistry, you’ll be inspired to embrace these truths that come alive through Grace’s creative touch.
~Ruth Coghill, Author, Speaker, and Encourager
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This is such a beautiful and heartfelt book by artist Grace Oettinger who uses her exquisite artistic talent to share with others the glories of God’s creation during a time of suffering in her life. I would have great difficulty naming a favourite painting as each one touched my soul in gentle and life-giving ways. My view of God and His truth expanded as I lingered over the richness of Grace’s works of art and I pray this book and each painting will be blessed by Him to bring healing and inspiration to others.
~Judy Cairns, Director of the Women’s Ministries Institute, FEB Central
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A lovely combination of beauty, faith, and vulnerability. Grace brings a sincere offering of hope and encouragement in the form of art and personal testimony of overcoming loss and grief.
~Ingrid Reichard, National Faith and Life Director,
The Canadian Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches
About the Author
Grace Oettinger (BA, MEd) paints and writes from her home in Ontario, Canada. She is the mother of three adult children and grandmother of six. Grace has created many beautiful artworks in both oil and watercolor that have been displayed at various shows and hang in private collections. She has led private art classes for adults and children for over 40 years. She also has a love of writing that dates back to her childhood. Grace is happy to accept commission orders. For further information, please email her at graceisartistic@gmail.com.