Discovering Your True Identity Through the Compassion of a Father and the Beauty of Lilies

On Father's Day, I invite us to reflect on our fathers. Fathers, whether they are exemplary or not, contribute to their children's sense of identity. If you're struggling with understanding your true self, today's blog post is for you.

On Sundays, I receive Eric Rhoad’s newsletter. He is a renowned Christian artist and magazine editor. In the latest newsletter, the following resonated with me: 

“And here is what I have come to believe: There is something almost sacred about discovering that your private struggle is not private at all. That other people have walked the same road, survived the same storm, and are still standing, still painting, still reaching for the light. You are not as alone as you think.”

I'm not sure what you're currently facing, but take comfort in knowing that others have experienced or are experiencing similar challenges. Here's one of my recent turbulent experiences:

Lately, I recalled some random childhood memories that, upon reflection, allowed me to view my father with acceptance. I sought God's guidance to help me move forward and understand why my dad made certain mistakes, as well as what lessons I can derive from them.

Discovering your true identity through the compassion of a father and the beauty of lilies

Before I invite you to reconnect with the identity that Heavenly Father instilled in your heart, I ask you to pause and reflect on both the positive and negative experiences with your father. As you contemplate these memories of fatherhood, is there something that encourages you to move forward in acceptance, repentance, or forgiveness? How about gratitude?

Reflecting on certain childhood memories allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of myself and become more receptive to new experiences of knowing God as a Father. What struck me was the depiction of God as a Father of compassion, as mentioned in 2 Corinthians.

Inspired by new experiences of God as a compassionate father, I painted “Lilies of the Valley.” I hope it opens the eyes of your heart to discover the roots of your identity and worth. 

"Lilies of the valley" 2026. Oil on canvas, 30cm x 30cm

“I am… a lily of the valleys.” - Song of Songs 2:1

The two elongated lilies in the painting symbolize how difficult times, like burnout, can challenge an individual's strength and abilities. Although tough periods may affect one's appearance, they do not define their value. Worth is derived from identity, which is depicted in this painting as a "Lilies of the valley". 

In a productivity-driven world, lilies stand out for their beauty, humility, and purity, often flourishing in valleys. Metaphorically, valleys symbolize the low points in human life—such as hardship, grief, or uncertainty—that lie between the "peaks" of success. While climbing a mountain demands active effort, entering a valley typically signifies a time of vulnerability, cleansing, and rest, leading to transformation. 

The third, unopened lily symbolizes new beginnings and the emergence of valuable newbies. In the Bible, the number three is linked to divine wholeness, completeness, harmony, and new life.

As you take time to reflect on today’s post, don't be surprised if you feel inspired to creatively express what resonates with your heart. This indicates that a childlike thought process has been awakened, leading you to perceive God as Father with a renewed perspective.