Scripture: Genesis 1:26-27
When I was growing up, I had a lot of very artistic friends. I had friends who could sing, dance, act, play music, or some combination of those things! I was always a bit jealous of those “creative types,” because I wasn’t very good at any of those things! At that age, I believed I just wasn’t artistic or creative.
Now, though, I know that’s not true. In fact, I don’t believe in “non-creative types” at all! Instead, I believe that we are all inherently creators. Scripture tells us that we are God’s handiwork, each created in the divine image, in God’s own likeness. As Joel McKerrow writes, “[God’s] essence runs red in our veins and fills our lungs with air; we carry [God’s] creativity in our blood and spirit. Like [Parent], like child.” Because God is an artist, we are each artists, too. We are created to create!
Perhaps you already know what your giftedness is, what creative experience brings you joy. Maybe it is painting or hula, knotting or calligraphy, graphic design or knitting. Maybe a coloring book and crayons can brighten your whole day!
Or perhaps you’re on the other end of the spectrum and think you don’t have an artistic bone in your body. If that’s the case, I encourage you not to give up. You are a creator! Find something that brings you joy. Perhaps your artistic side comes out when you photograph your children or grandchildren or pets. Perhaps it comes out in the care with which you craft letters to your loved ones. Or perhaps it’s in the way you decorate your home or landscape your yard. Our artistry is as diverse as the world in which we live. And our art isn’t for other people; it is an act of praise to the One who created us. Practice your creativity knowing that whatever you create brings joy to God.