This painting called A Pastoral Visit (1881) by Richard Norris Brook.

This work reminds me that spiritual formation doesn’t just occur in weekly worship, but also in homes, around tables, and in casual settings.  The practice of conversation is a pastoral tradition, and an important custom of society.  Plus, our hearts yearn for meaningful conversation.

If you like this painting, take a couple of minutes to read its description from the National Art Gallery, and it will add depth to this picture.

https://www.nga.gov/collection/art-object-page.166432.html

I enjoy the resources from Biola Univesity’s Center for Christianity, Culture and the Arts.  In their Lent devotionals, they highlighted this painting, which led to further investigation on my part.