Photo credit: Pav Le (used with permission)

There is something inherently comforting in the strong beam of light pulsing in dimness of the dawn. It's source stands tall and majestic, firmly rooted atop the iconic rocky cliffs lining Sydney's shore.
The lighthouse was built as a beacon - to guide ships away from the danger of cliffs they could not see, a recognisable signpost while navigating through blackness, and a familiar landmark that signalled to weary travellers they were almost home. It's pulsing light never fails to miss a beat. This is their source of truth as they negotiate the waves, their source of hope as they fix their eyes on it's light.
Watching that strong beam faithfully pulsing in the dimness of the dawn, I am captivated by it's light. The darkness behind me, the cold rock beneath me and the chill in the morning air that freezes my misty breath - all this only serves to emphasise the bright warm light given by this unwavering tower. I am in awe of it's beauty and majesty, and the coldness and darkness almost seem to melt away as I focus on it's light.
The sky begins to lighten, purple and gold dance across the shimmering ocean as it reflects the colours of the sunrise. The light from the lighthouse seems to almost grow dimmer. Yet I know it it still there, pulsing faithfully. Though I now do not need it's light, I am comforted to know it will continue to shine - and it will be there when darkness falls again.
Like my Heavenly Father, my source of truth and hope, His light shines brighter in the dark seasons. As I focus on His light, I am in awe of His beauty and majesty - and the coldness and darkness almost seem to melt away. And when the sun rises, I know He is still there, faithfully shining His light and warmth. My one constant, I know that He will be there when the darkness falls again.
I have chosen to paint Hornby Lighthouse on dawn, just as the sun begins to rise, touching the sky and sea with beautiful shades of purple and gold. The iconic cliffs of Sydney's shore are emphasised with textured paint, the use of the palette knife highlighting the sharp angles of the rock. The lighthouse stands tall and majestic, protectively leaning over it's harbour.