Creativity connects us to God

During lockdown, I started a daily painting exercise; a small idea quickly gained momentum and motivated me to explore more about art and painting. As a teenager, I was discouraged from taking an art GCSE in favour of double science. Looking back, it seems so obvious that this was a mistake, even though the guidance was given with good intentions. Fast forward five years since lockdown and I am still painting, and have regular commissions. I also take part in art classes and groups. Despite being in my 40s, many of my fellow art friends see me as a youngster, which makes me laugh, as I’ve always felt older than my years. Fortunately, they share lots of insights and wisdom. I find that actively creative people, regardless of their age, tend to be open-minded and less judgemental of others.

One profound lesson I’ve learned recently is that mistakes are not failures; they illuminate our journey, and art is about exploration, not perfection. Progress is the friend of courage, and taking small steps towards exploring our talents is deeply rewarding and actively encouraged in the Bible.

Psalm 139:13-14 states: “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” These verses convey the belief that God is deeply involved in creating each person and this creation is both awe-inspiring and deserving of praise.

As we welcome autumn, which embodies transformation and the cycle of life, we are reminded of the beauty of letting go as we prepare for the colder months. It’s a season of harvest and gratitude, highlighting the impermanence of life. And, while we may miss the warmth of summer days, there is great comfort in embracing the changing seasons. It is also a time to reflect and plant new hopes and dreams, because creativity is not a robotic reflex; it is a soul connection with God and one of the best ways to experience his presence.

Art, at its very core, is a divine gift from God, serving as a means to convey profound ideas and emotions that might otherwise go unspoken. As much as we need vitality, we need creativity. Paradoxically, it is often the unspoken that requires the most discussion. By sharing our personal stories, we add colour and light to life, creating a vibrant mix of creativity that undoubtedly makes this world more beautiful.

As the leaves fall into the earth,

Teach us, Lord, to let go as nature does.

Lord in your mercy, 

Provide us with patience and perseverance,

So that we may challenge the status

quo of conformity.

For in you we find strength, sustenance

and everlasting freedom.

The gift of creativity is woven into all humankind.

Teach us, heavenly Father, to yield to

peace and solutions

Where problems and strife arise.

Like the gardener who weeds and restores,

Please, Lord, cleanse us so that we may be forgiving of ourselves 

And one another.

Lord Almighty and heavenly Father, ignite

in our souls a perpetual hunger 

To follow your path of truth,

enlightenment, compassion and love.

Always and forever,

Amen