Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: BE PRESENT

Art has the amazing ability to tap into our emotions. It can take us on a journey of great heights and tremendous depths.  It has the ability to bring tears to our eyes or make us laugh out loud. Some work has the power to enlighten our human experience. Art might cause a visceral reaction.  Even if a piece does not particularly resonate with us, it is eliciting a response none the less. However, if you are not experiencing such emotions while viewing art....WHY NOT?  Could it be that you are not truly "present"?  Being present requires us to set aside the distractions in our life and devoting our attention to a given person, place, or thing.  It is easy in our world to allow distractions to rob us of these deep felt emotional responses to art.  Put away your phone. Clear your mind of all those things that are vying for your attention.  Be present with the art.  Allow your self to think and feel deeply in response to the work that is in front of you.  Don't allow your mind to wander.  Be present. 

There is so much happening in our world right now.  It can be incredibly overwhelming.  We don't know what to think.  We don't know what to feel.  We don't know what to do. Some respond by shutting down.  Others might compartmentalize. While some will micromanage areas of their life in order to feel like they have some semblance of control.  We embrace the distractions instead of being present.  The Bible really gives us an amazing response to such a time as this.  When others are happy....be happy with them!  When they are sad...share their sorrow.  Work together. Don't act like you know it all or have it all together!  When I read these verses from Romans 12:15-16...it lets me know I don't have to have all the answers. I just need to be present. I need to have an open heart & an open mind.  I need to trust God.  I think we will truly be amazing what God can do in and through us if we just make ourselves available....with a loving and humble heart.  BE PRESENT!

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: For the love...

Have you ever met someone that really loves art? I mean REALLY loves art!

  As art people, we often love to talk about art. We discuss the good , the bad, and the ugly (and sometimes we really love the ugly!!)  We love to create art.  From grand works to little doodles, we just want to be creating something.  We love to go to galleries, museums, and to look at art work other artist.  It expands, inspires & challenges our artistic vision.  We love to buy art supplies (whether we need them or not! ha ha). We love to share our passion for art with others. Sometimes this is through "formal" teaching, but often it is just casual conversation.   When we sincerely love something, it is only natural for it to spill over into other areas of our life.   We don't do it with some "agenda"...it is simply for the love of art! 

Have you ever met someone that you feel has a sincere love for God?  What are some of the characteristics you see in them?  Words like true, real, genuine, different, compassionate, and loving might come to mind. For the love of God transforms people, and they are no longer the same.  I'm not talking about the people that are so heavenly minded that they are no earthly good.  People that have been truly transformed by God's love will be sincere in love.  This love is a call to action.  Love can not be passive and be true.  Romans 12:9-10 goes on to say that there will be "hate" for what is evil. We can not passively view "evil".   We must have a strong visceral response to those things that are not of God that calls us to action.  This verse goes on to say that we must cling to what is good.  Why is this important? If we are not careful we can become so focused on the negative that we lose hope that God is still on the throne.  The last part of this section of scripture goes back to the need for the love of God in our life.  This love reminds us that we must "die to self". In other words...STOP BEING SO SELFISH!!!!  Too often we place our wants, our needs, our comfort above what God is calling us to do.  If we want to truly live a life of sincere love...we must become more like Christ.  If we desire our love for the Lord to overflow into every area of our life, we must devote ourselves to knowing him. In doing so, we will begin seeing more of the Lord in our heart, mind, attitudes, actions, reactions, and relationships.  It will spill over into every area of our life.

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: Start New

 

There have been many times over the years that I've become "stuck" on a concept, style, medium, brand, color(s), or technique.  There wasn't a conscious choice to become stuck.  It just kind of happened.  There are different reasons for this: a stubborn desire to make something work, a fear to try something new/different, we are comfortable doing what we've always done,  lacking vision for what's next, or some combination.  Though it is noble to see something to fruition, holding onto something that isn't working prevents us from moving forward.  Painting over a canvas, tearing out a page in your sketch book, switching the medium....when you start new you give yourself the freedom to let go of what was and embrace what is yet to come. 

Past successes and failures have the potential to get in the way of what God wants to do in our lives.  Living in what was prevents us from living in what's now.  Some rest in the glory of the past. Some wrestle with the mistakes of the past.  Both need to start new!  When we are given the gift of "today" we must seek God on how we might grow to know him more and to make him known. Our past experience inform our present but do not define it.  "SEE, I AM DOING A NEW THING!" What is it that God desires to do in and through you...TODAY.  What past experiences are you holding on to as excuses?  You've gone on mission trips, grown up in church, taught Sunday school.....but what about TODAY?   You've messed up...repeatedly, you feel like you've run from God, you are still struggling.....but what about TODAY?  Today is a day to start new!  Today is a day to trust God.  

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: WORDS

Most think of art as a primarily visual form of communication and expression, but words play an incredible roll.  They label it, describe it, promote it, compare it, emote about it, praise it, and condemn it. Art creates conversation.  Art is communication.  A title for a work can cause confusion or clarification.  A well written artist statement can set the scene for a work or series of works that will usher the viewer in to a deeper experience because of the context provided.  A scathing review can sway our opinion of a work, artist, or venue.  Friends discussing a work of art or an artist can raise one's curiosity & desire to seek out more information.  Yes, words have a power to impact art (and artist) in a positive, negative, or neutral way.  

Words have an incredible impact.  Do you consider this in your day to day?  There are so many things happening in our world that could easily influence you in a negative manner.  Are you allowing negativity to escape from your lips?  How much do you entertain negativity in your ears, minds, and hearts? Sometimes we make excuses.  We call it "playing", "sarcasm", "truth", "honesty", "the way it is"...etc. However we choose to label it, the reality is that we can harm others with our words (piercing like a sword).  If it does not build others up, if it does not show God's love, and if it does not reflect The Word to the world around us....do we need to entertain such things? 

Do your words HURT or HEAL?  

As you reflect on this....consider how you can change the words you hear, read, write, listen, and speak so that you might better reflect the person God has called you to be.  Do your words help, encourage, inspire, build, benefit, and HEAL? Do they show love, grace, and hope?  Do others want to know why your words, your way, your attitudes, and your actions are different from others?  

This week speak words of love, encouragement, and healing

 to someone in your life!

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: WATCH

It is easy to allow outside sources to influence our inner creative dialog.  Sometimes we are seeking constructive criticism.  Sometimes we are seeking affirmation. Sometimes people offer unsolicited opinions. Whatever the case might be, if we are not careful we can allow such things to begin seeping into our heart, our mind, and our art.  We begin to think that our work isn't good enough, our ideas are not strong enough, or that we lack social media star power (a seeming prerequisite for any type of success in today's world). Half truths and whole lies cause us to doubt ourselves or compromise our artist integrity.   Our work begins morphing into what is trendy and acceptable to the masses. We need to watch what we allow to take root in our artistic lives. We need to watch our own thoughts, words, and actions so we do not feed into the destructive patterns that can crush our creative pursuits.

What does it mean to "watch over your heart"? Some translations use the word "guard" instead of watch.  When one watches or guards something.....they are attentive.  They know who or what SHOULD be going in or out.  They know who or what IS going in and out.  They are also empowered(given the tools and training) to do what is necessary to insure these expectations are accomplished. Do we truly "watch" or "guard" our heart?  Do we allow things to enter in that should not?  Right now we are faced with information and opinions as diverse as the fish in the sea.  We can easily allow the confusion, contempt, and consternation of this world to impact our lives.  We can allow pride and stress to have a place in our hearts.  Is that what the Lord desires for us? NO!  We need to be living the life God has given us.  That life is rooted in love.  What are you letting into your heart...your mind...your life?  What actions do you need to take to truly watch/guard your heart?  

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: Plans

Plans are a good thing, right?  We are constantly making plans in our lives.  As artists, we plan out our ideas for our creative pursuits through talking with trusted peers, sketching, or even writing.  Planning ahead can help us work out issues before they happen.  This saves us time, money(wasted supplies equals money), and frustration.  However, making changes or going in a new direction can be scary even when we plan.  Sometimes we would rather just keep on doing what we've always done because it is safe and comfortable. The risk of failure, looking foolish, not being able to actualize your ideas, or exposing ourselves as a hack can paralyze us from working on and implementing our plans.  The risk is worth it.  Even when plans do not unfold as we had hoped, we can learn so much from the experience....and yes....even the failures.  If we make plans and follow through with them in hopes to grow...we will always find success.

For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord.  They are plans for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.  In those days when you pray, I will listen.  You will find me when you seek me, if you look for me in earnest. 

Jeremiah 29:11-13

There are times we make plans based on others.  We make plans based on our own wants/desires.  We make plans based on partial information.  We make plans based on complete information.  We make so many plans.  Some of those plans are great.  Some of those plans.....well....not so much.
How often do we make plans based on what the Lord has for us?  There was a time that I thought following God's plan for my life would have me some far away land (and part of my story has been in far away lands). There are times that I thought if I followed God's plan I'd have to give everything I had to the poor, and then I too would be poor too.  These misconceptions of God's plan for my life happened because I was not living out Jeremiah 29:11-13.  Whatever God's plans for our lives are...they are good...they give us a future....they give us hope!  When we live out God's plan for our lives....we will grow.  It might not always be easy, but it will grow us and glorify the Lord.  You might be wondering how you can know God's plan for your life?!?  We also read in these scriptures..."when you pray, I will listen. You will find me when you seek me, if you look for me in earnest.".  God desires us to come to him, talk to him, and listen to him.  He is not silent.  When we seek him in earnest...we will find him & hear from him.  Do your plans line up with the God's?  

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: What's Happening?

(If you are new to my blog, I do a faith based post on Sundays. 

 If this is not your thing...Monday-Sat you can find art, art ed, & other eclectic information!)

Do you know what a "Happening" is?  They are art events that have some aspects planned, but with room for improvisation & audience participation.  They also usually involve multiple art forms.  For some, Happenings sound like an amazing experience.  However, I'm a bit of a control freak, and would struggle to give up control and embrace the moment which could yield unprecedented artistic expression & creativity.  There are so many factors that go into a Happening..location, other artists, audience participation, and the strength of the original idea.  One or more of these factors could throw the whole plan off it's original track.  That is what makes a Happening exciting.....they may not turn out how you planned, but could be even better than you imagined.

Not being "flexible" can keep me from experiencing the blessings of faith as well.  I have an idea of what God wants to do...and how I think He wants accomplish it.  However, when it doesn't work out how I thought it should...I'm ready to throw the baby out with the bathwater!

Some men took a man who was not able to move his body to Jesus.  He was carried on a bed.  They looked for a way to take the man into the house where Jesus was. But they could not find a way to take him in because of so many people.  They made a hole in the roof over where Jesus stood.  Then they let the bed with the sick man down before Jesus.  When Jesus saw their faith,  He said to the man, "Friend, your sins are forgiven."   

 Luke 5:18-20

The full story can be found at Luke 5:17-26.  The men who carried the man on the bed were on a mission.  They knew if they could just get to Jesus...that He would be able to help.  Their plan was derailed a bit by the crowd that surrounded the Lord...which made it "impossible" to reach Him.  I wonder what went through their minds when they were so close..yet unable to reach Jesus.  I know I would have been the first one to say..."WELL, WE TRIED GUYS!  GUESS WE NEED TO TURN BACK & GO HOME.  OUR PLAN JUST WON'T WORK.  IT WAS A GOOD TRY THOUGH."  Somehow they were able to see past the conventional way of reaching the Lord, and put their faith into action.  They knew their mission...and they were going to see it through till the end...even if it didn't look like what they originally thought it would.  I really would have loved to have seen/heard the reaction of the men who carried the man, the man on the bed, the people who surrounded Jesus, and Jesus...as they lowered him down through the hole in the roof! ha ha  

They embraced the moment.......even though things didn't happen like they thought they would.  We are in a position right now to embrace the moment.  It is a moment like we never imagined.  Things are not ideal.  We are faced with challenges like we've never seen before. At times we feel helpless, isolated, and insecure. We are struggling.  However, it is an opportunity to trust God.  We can see his faithfulness if we look to him in the midst of our struggle. In doing so...we might find ourselves growing deeper in our relationship with God.   If things always happen as we plan/expect do we ever develop the faith needed to live the life God has planned for us?!  What's happening in your life?  Do you see the opportunity of the roof....or are you too focused on the crowd that you feel is preventing you from reaching your goal?  

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: Woven Together

I love teaching weaving.  There is an almost magical quality about it. The art room becomes quiet. Students are amazed just how quickly an hour passes. I have many ask to come in before class, during lunch & recess, and after class so they can continue.  Some students that struggle in other areas of art (drawing, painting..etc) find great success with weaving. However, it is important to continually monitor student progress even when everything seems to be going so well. It is easy for students to become distracted, lax, or careless when they think they've "got it". I must be diligent in monitoring my students' work.  As I walk around the room, I try to encourage the good that I see, redirect any issues they might be having, and challenge them to be "present" in their creating.  As I do this, students begin modeling the same behavior to those around them.  I hear words of encouragement. I hear offers to help those struggling. I see students reminding their neighbors to focus on their work.  It is a beautiful thing when a class that is weaving seems to be woven together in their own special way.

How are you doing? 

YOU....YOU WHO ARE READING THIS RIGHT NOW...

HOW ARE YOU DOING?

  I pray you are healthy...physically...mentally...and spiritually.

COVID-19 has changed our world.  We find ourselves in the midst of "social distancing" & "shelter in place".  This can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection. As believers, we know that we are called to be One Body.  It doesn't feel right to be away from those we consider our family. 

We are woven together through a shared belief. We are woven together through a shared heart.

As we find ourselves unable to gather together in our churches, Bible studies,and Sunday school classes....we must be purposeful & creative in how we can spur one another on, meet together, and encourage one another in other ways.  We live in an amazing time where we have cell phones, emails, websites, YouTube, social media, Zoom, Face Time, Marco Polo...and a host of other technology. Hopefully you have been able to watch your church service online (if they have that available), listen to Christian music(online or on the radio) and podcasts.  However...those are more consumer based.  How about reaching out to others? 

Take a moment and pray about those in your faith community 

that might need you to reach out to them.

5 People to Call

5 People to Text

5 People to E-Mail

5 People to Contact on Social Media

How can you use each of these opportunities to encourage the person you are contacting? You might just want to let them know that you were thinking about them.  Do you have a scripture you feel God has been putting on your heart that you might share with them?  Do you want to ask them if they have any prayer requests?  Maybe you could ask them to share how they came to faith?  

  Some people might not realize how disconnected they feel because they have gone into "survival mode".   Reaching out could have a ripple effect in your community.  It might encourage the person you contacted.....to reach out to others! 

We are woven together in faith. We are connected & need one another.

BE THE THE CONNECTION

BE THE ENCOURAGER

BE THE BODY!

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Up Close

 I have countless books at home and in my classroom containing amazing works of art from around the world and throughout time.  As much as I enjoy looking through the pages of these books, it does not compare to seeing the work in person.  Van Gogh has always been one of my favorite artists.  His work masterfully employs color, texture, and composition to evoke such strong emotional responses. Though I gained a love and appreciation or his work through looking at books, it was not till I saw his work face to face that I truly understood its impact.  Seeing his work up close allowed me to observe the very marks he made.  I tried to take in as much as I could in those fleeting moments.  I truly was overwhelmed by the experience.  It was like being on "holy ground".  As I left the museum, I knew I wanted to learn even more about Van Gogh and discover images of his work that I had never seen before.  Getting to see his work up close made my appreciation for his work even greater. 

Do we know what it means to earnestly seek God?  Maybe we've grown up going to church, knowing the "stories", and passively participating in things of faith.  There may have been a time where you might have said you were passionate about your relationship with God.  You may have had a "mountain top" experience that fanned the flames of your faith for a period of time.  However, now there is just a flicker or smoldering ember remaining.  How do we get to the point where we are earnestly seeking God....thirsting for Him...longing for Him?  We must get up close to God.  We can't set passively by and expect things to change.  Being in prayer, reading our Bible, spending time with other people of faith allows us to get up close (and personal) with God.  We will begin to see the masterful plan He has for our life and for the lives of those around us.  We must be able to draw close, to study, and to experience first hand the things of faith so that our lives are impacted by it. It is one thing to know it "second hand".....but when you have an up close experience....it will cause you to seek Him all the more! 

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: Encourage

It is amazing how much something as simple as encouragement
 can change one's entire perspective.

The artist can be extremely critical of their own work.  Because so often they create in isolation...they begin to believe their inner dialog of negativity. They have no one to stop the wrong thinking. Though they must have an honest & critical eye, be able to self reflect, and edit their own work....negativity rarely yields the positive results that are needed to build momentum in creative pursuits. Internalized negativity stunts one's ability to progress fluidly. Self doubt, frustration, and dissatisfaction are stumbling blocks.  The stereotypical self deprecating, angsty artist is not the picture of health & productivity.

 As in all areas, the artist needs to have individuals in their life that will be honest, yet provide encouragement. No one needs someone lying to them or throwing out worthless platitudes. A person who can give honest feedback and at the same time  encourages the positive in their work is a treasure.  They help the artist to see the good, and help to prevent them from going down a destructive path of negativity.  We all need encouragement as we step out, try new things, and desire to better ourselves.  Words of affirmation go a long way in changing our perspective.  

So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Our world has become obsessed with negativity. Spewing hate, hurling insults, and divisiveness creates a toxic environment where no one wins. People feel more disconnected, dissatisfied, and disenchanted. Growth & progress are hard to come by in such an environment.  Love, kindness, connection, and encouragement are needed so desperately. 

 As believers, we must live differently. We have been called to be & do not as the "world".  We need to look at situations & individuals through the eyes of Christ. Our response should be one of love & compassion. 

How would things change around you if you made the choice to encourage someone, make mention of the good you see them doing, take a moment to listen to them(without offering your opinion), or ask if they need help with anything(All the while refusing to participate in fruitless negative talk!)? 

 Could your encouragement show others the love of Christ during these dark times? Could your attitudes and actions help to turn someone's day around?  Could your refusal to participate in the negative help someone else get out of that vicious &  destructive cycle? What has God called you to do? How is He going to use you to encourage others? 

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: What Are You Known For?

Artists are often portrayed as melancholy, aloof, and raging against conventional thoughts & norms. Movies, television, and comics perpetuate these characteristics. The portrayal is incomplete.  There are times those things are true of artists (as with all people). However, the dominant characteristic I see in artists that might challenge the stereotype is.....HOPEFUL!  I believe artists are some of the most hope filled people you will ever meet.  They hope to convey their ideas, opinions, dreams, and beliefs through their work.  They hope that they will be able to share these works with others in a variety of settings.  They hope that others will "get" their point of view.  They hope that they can make a living doing what they love.  They hope that they will be respected for their work.  They hope that they will be able to continue to grow & develop as artists.  They hope their work will be known.  They hope they will be known.  They hope they will live long enough to see all these hopes come to fruition.  

Hope is at the core of an artist. 

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.   Romans 15:13

As believers, we should be known for our hope.  If anyone had a reason for hope...it should be those of us who have a personal relationship with the Lord.  Unfortunately, I often find that many believers are known for their worries, stress, and negativity.  Hope can not thrive in an environment of worries/stress/negativity.  The hope we have does not exist because we will get everything we want, avoid facing trials and troubles, or live a life void of stress.  Our hope is in knowing God. Our hope is in trusting God. Our hope is in the love of God.  If this is true, only will we have hope in Him, but our hope will OVERFLOW by the power of the Holy Spirit.  If we can overflow with hope, those around us will be impacted by that hope!  Haven't you known people that you just love to be around because of their positive outlook on life & their ability to speak positivity to those around them? Don't we want that?  Don't we want to be that?  Shouldn't our lives be different because o the hope we have?  Shouldn't our life make a difference because of the hope that we have?  Hope is at the core of the believer. 

 What are you known for?

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: Laziness

 

Art is a discipline.  Art requires discipline.  Like an athlete training to become the best at their sport, art requires practice/training to advance personally and professionally.  I'm not necessarily saying that it has to be "formal".  For some, it is simply pursing their art on a consistent basis.  Too often we allow days or weeks to pass without creating.  We, at times, halfheartedly work on our art. We become lazy.  Choosing not to challenge ourselves, being willing to try new materials, or not seeking out new skill sets are some of the other signs of laziness. There are consequences to not doing what you know you should be doing.Resting on previous work or ways of working will slowly erode what once was able to be accomplished.  

I don't know if I've ever used Judges in my Sunday Devotionals?!? ha ha  This section of scripture truly baffled me at first.  A person who ruled Israel for twenty-two years & had thirty sons (riding thirty donkeys?) you would think was extremely successful.  However, why would Israel once again do evil in the eyes of the Lord when their leader died? Things were happening during Jair's leadership that led Israel to this outcome.  Laziness.  Israel did not just decide to turn their back on God because Jair died.  They began allowing things in their lives that slowly eroded their foundation in the Lord.  They became too comfortable. Remember that weird factoid about Jair's sons riding donkeys?  Well, the fact that they were riding donkeys was a sign that they were in a time of peace.  Things were "easy".  Sometimes when things are easy & comfortable....we allow things to creep into our lives that we might not normally.  Before you start shaking your head or wagging your finger at Israel....make sure you are looking at your own life.  Have you ever let things slide in your life that maybe shouldn't?  We all have become lazy & allowed things into our heart, mind, and life that once would have never had a chance.  It is a good reminder that we must be diligent, hard working, and ever mindful.  If we are not going & growing in God.....that we might fall into trap of laziness. 

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: More Than Talk

There is an extremely callous statement volleyed around art educators far too often... "Those who can't....teach."  Some of the most gifted artists I know are also educators.  They do not teach because they are unable to create masterful works.  They teach because their passion for the visual arts compels them to train up the next generation of artists.  They will not be happy just talking about art.  They will not be happy just creating their own work.  Their happiness comes from helping students see their potential or grasp a skill/concept that has eluded them.  They are more than talk.  They make a difference through their art in action.  

The Christian community is often viewed as hypocrites.  When did we become a people of words and not actions?  Is that even biblical? No wonder those outside of the faith are confused and at times repulsed by those who claim Christianity.  No wonder they do not have a clear picture of God when they look at those who say they know him.  Those who claim faith in God must put into action the teachings they have learned.  If our life is not impacted, guided, and motivated by the love of the Lord....we have missed the heart of the message we say we believe.  Our life should be a reflection of that love so graciously given to us.  Our life should be about the doing...because that is what was shown us.  It is more than talk. It is action. It is love.  

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Afraid to Try

How many times have I had students "freeze" in fear of making a mistake?!  Usually this happens in the older grades as students become more self aware or become more influenced by peer pressure (Kindergarten students are never afraid to try anything...because they know they are amazing!!)  They become afraid to try new things...challenging things.  They do not want to mess up or be made fun of (not that such behavior is ever tolerated in my classroom).  I've found that if I work one on one with the students, praise their attempts, and reinforce the idea that mistakes are part of the learning process....they usually are willing to try.  Not that they are completely without fear, but they are able to work through their fear knowing I'm there to guide them and cheer them on.   

Do you know that "fear not" is found in the Bible over 100 times?  Fear is a common human emotion/reaction. However, just because something is common doesn't mean it should become commonplace in our daily lives. Now...there is "good" fear that is healthy, helpful, and can provide us proper perspective!  I'm not talking about that.  I'm talking about the fear that negatively impacts our lives.  The kind of fear that has a way of limiting our effectiveness for what God has called us to do.  The fear that can keep us from reaching out to people around us that are in need.  Fear that can convince us that we won't have enough if we give to others. Fear that leaves us frozen & too afraid to try anything that God desires for us.  We can push through such fear!  In Joshua 1:9 we see "Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged...."  Why?  Because God knows we can become afraid & discouraged.  When this happens...we become ineffective.  The verse goes on to say "...for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."  What amazing reassurance!  I know that when I travel/explore new places...I like to have someone with me that has been there before.  It gives me confidence and comfort.  We have that in God...he is with us & goes before us.  This truth helps to alleviate my fear.  We are loved, looked after...and not alone.   

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: Healing

Art has a way of helping us process our pain, struggles, and emotional issues. You do not need a vast knowledge of art or consider yourself to be an "artist" to benefit from the therapeutic effects.  

Viewing art as a means of healing is very much like listening to music.  There is something that resonates within you.  It could be that a work brings calm and order to your chaotic world.  You might see a piece that somehow transports you to pleasant memories and happier times.  Others might connect more with work that meets them right where they are.  The art might reflect the chaos and struggles they are experiencing, and somehow.....they feel less alone because of it.  

The act of creating art also provides an opportunity to begin the healing process.  You might use a sketchbook to create a visual journal of what you're feeling and experiencing.  Painting might allow you to express your emotions more effectively through its tactile nature, gestural brush strokes, and emoting color. Sculptural/3-D art might allow you to "work out" the feelings, anxieties, and frustrations that are pent up inside of you.  

It doesn't matter if art is your profession, hobby, or something you've never really done before.  Art has the power to help anyone in the healing process

As long as we're here on this Earth, there will be pain, struggles, and emotional issues.  No one is exempt from these ever present parts of life.  If we try to lie to ourselves and others about them....we are denying a very real part of our human experience. We live in a world where "fine" is the norm response for "How are you?" 

I have to ask though...."Are you really fine?"  

It is ok not to be ok.  So often we see those in the church wearing the mask of "fine".  This answer is the denial of reality, and is the denial of God's ability and desire to meet us where we are.  In Psalm 147:3 (and all over scripture) we see that God desires to heal the brokenhearted & to bind up their wounds.  He is not surprised that you are less than perfect.  He is not surprised that you are struggling.  You do not have to figure it all out or "fix" yourself before you come to God.  He wants you to come AS. YOU. ARE.  Seeking help, finding ways to manage stress, and developing tools for being a more healthy you (mentally, physically, and spiritually) are important.  If we do these things as we seek after God ...we will find ourselves in a healthier place. Real healing is possible.  You will see it in the scars.

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: STRENGTH

As a young artist, I attempted to find my artistic voice.  I tried on styles, colors, and media like clothing.  As I learned about artists & movements, I implemented those concepts into my work to see if they were me.  I applied different themes & motifs to see if they "sounded" like my voice or not...because I didn't know who I was as an artist.  I do feel this is part of the growing process for most of us..  However, there comes a time where you have to stand up for who you are, do what you feel is right, and speak out with your own voice.  That boldness does not always come easily, and can come and go depending on how secure/insecure we are feeling.  As I began to find out who I was artistically..my security was shaken a couple times along the way by professors that questioned the validity of what I had to say as an artist.    I'd eventually shake that off, and move forward with my work being truer to me and the strength I had in vision, purpose, and skill.

We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.  If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith;  if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.  

Romans 12:6-9

We all have different gifts, talents, and skills.  As we grow in our faith, there are times we have to try out different things to see if they are truly us or not.  I've known many people that thought they were teachers.....UNTIL THEY TAUGHT!  ha ha  That doesn't mean they failed at being a teacher.  It just means they need to find that place that best suits their God given gifts and talents.  Sometimes we need those experiences in order to find where we truly need to be.   God did not give you the natural ability to connect with people & make them feel at ease...just to stick you in a tiny room somewhere with a computer.  God didn't give you a servant's heart that likes to stay out of the spot light...just to shove you on a stage!  God wants you to use those gifts & talents for his glory & honor...to know him & make him known!  When we operate in those God given situations as we were designed to do...I feel we experience a joy like no other & are the most effective for the kingdom.  People may come and tell you what they think you should be....or you may see others who seem to have it all together so you try to be like them....but the truth is...YOU NEED TO BE YOU!  You need to know the strengths God has given you....and do that...be that!!!  Now, that doesn't mean the outgoing/up front type person shouldn't clean up or do things behind the scenes....or that the servant's heart behind the scenes person doesn't need to step to the forefront at times....it just means the majority of our time we should operate in the strengths God has given us.  

(This was a devotional I wrote 4 yrs ago...which has been edited/changed from the original post)

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: UNSEEN

Glue is such an important art supply.  However, it is at its best when unseen.  Even a little bit of "exposed" glue can be detrimental, and wreck the craftsmanship of a work of art. Too much glue can cause warping or develop a undesirable texture because of the excessive moisture.  Having too little glue can cause pieces of your work curl, lift, or even fall off.  So many art supplies scream for attention, but glue wants to do its job and remain unnoticed. 

The unseen power of glue can make or break a work of art. 

There is a fine line between promotion of self and exaltation of Christ.  That line sometimes becomes so faint that people do not really know which side of it they are on.  While pretending to seek the interest of God, they fall prey to promoting themselves - AW Tozer The Crucified Life

Jesus, Tozer, and faithful leaders from today all addressing the same issue.  Too often we (and that is a big old huge collective we) do not seek out opportunities to serve God behind the scenes. We want our actions to be noticed.  We want to have Instagram moments of service.  LOOK AT ME!  SEE WHAT I AM DOING FOR GOD!  There are people who are called to be "up front" in their service, but more often than not....we need to serve God with humble hearts that desire to honor him and minister to others unseen.  As we continue to grow in our relationship with the Lord, this desire to serve/minister/reach out to others "behind the scenes" becomes our heartbeat.  Though there are times sharing our ministry/service is appropriate to encourage & challenge others......most of the time we seek to serve the Lord with our lives and desire an audience of One.   Be the glue in your family, your church, your job, your community....EVERYWHERE!!!  

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: Resolve

We are now almost two weeks into the new year ....how are your resolutions going?  So many of my art friends "declared" this would be the year they created ever day, they would work in their sketch books every night before bed, complete a painting each week, have their work on display somewhere, or that they would [INSERT ART GOAL HERE].  Don't get me wrong....I think it is wonderful to set goals!  I feel we need them in order to break free from the ruts & bad habits we've allowed to steal our creative joy.  However, broken resolutions can cause us to sink deeper into the ruts & bad habits we were trying to change in the first place.  The guilt & shame of unmet goals often produces excuses and/or negative self talk which creates further distance between the artist and their desire to create. I believe we must resolve to do better.  Not that we set unrealistic resolutions, but that we resolve to take steps toward meeting this real need within us to create.  There may be some days that we are unable to follow through..... AND THAT'S OK!!!!  We must give ourselves grace, and embrace each day as an opportunity to try once more.  

Isaiah 43:18-19

It is amazing how many people are so often stuck somewhere in their past.  It may be a failure that they cannot move beyond.  It may be a victory that they can not let go.  Allowing our past to define us (both the good & the bad) does not allow for us to experience the growth and change that God desires for our lives.  Though our past can inform us, it should not keep us from moving forward.  God knows our "past"......and he still loves us. We must resolve to view each day as a new opportunity to live the life God has given us....to know him & make him known.  If you struggle to forgive yourself....if you struggle to move forward.....read Isaiah 43:18-19 each and every day.  Take to heart the scriptures as they say..."FORGET THE FORMER THINGS; DO NOT DWELL ON THE PAST."  This truth is a resolution worth pursuing. 

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: Letting Go

Most artists I know love to collect art supplies. Maybe they are necessities, the latest greatest version of a tried and true, the newest tool or material that will revolutionize their work, or an innovation that will make life easier.  Maybe there is an amazing sale going on, we have coupons, someone gave us a gift card, or we have "extra" money at a given point in time.  It could be that we are afraid if we'd don't get something now...we might not ever be able to get it.  Whatever the case might be...if we are able to acquire more art supplies, we will. Some we might actually use right away. Other things we know we will find the right project for them at some point.  Some though....we look at and wonder why we ever thought we need them, but we aren't willing to part with them because you just never know. Too much of a good thing can get in our way of accomplishing what we really want to do. I become overwhelmed at times when there are too many option or too much clutter.  When this happens I know I must let go of the unnecessary and prioritize the pertinent.  I'm not against trying new things because you never know when you will find a gem. However, storing up supplies you may never need or use only gets in your way. 

When the Israelites were in the wilderness God provided manna for them to eat. He told them to only collect enough for the day. The Israelites did not listen.  They collected more than they needed...and it 

spoiled/rotted. Why would they do this if God instructed them not to? They were worried they would run out. They were concerned that the next day the manna may not come. They did not trust God to provide for their needs. What if? What could it hurt? This attitude shows that they thought they knew better than God on how to provide for themselves. This attitude...and behavior showed their hearts' condition. They had forgotten God had provided for them from the beginning. They had dismissed all he had done for them from the start of the exodus.  And can we just be real for a minute here...when we say THEY...it is really the same with You and I. We fill our life with things. We do whatever we can to feel secure, comfortable, and in control. We begin to push God out of our lives except where it is convenient.  "We've got this God....we don't need you!" We fill our life up with so much clutter....we have no room to see the Lord work.

We must learn to trust God with today. We live by our planners, calendars, and electronic notifications. We struggle to leave life open to what God may have us do. Though he does not desire for us to be sluggards/lazy...we can not be so worried about our "tomorrow" that we plan away any opportunity for God to use us or change our plans. We must approach each day with open hands and open hearts trusting that God will meet our needs as we live for him.

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: Just Keep Going

New ideas bring a flood of energy.  When you are excited for a new project it feels like nothing can stop you from seeing it to fruition.  Unfortunately, this is not usually the case.  Life happens.  It could be any number of things that keep you from continuing on your initial burst of passion for a project. Friends, phone calls, the need for food, the need for sleep, and so many other of life's situations. It is amazing how easily we can be distracted from something we originally thought we'd not stop until we finished.  So what do we do when we lose our initial motivation?  JUST KEEP GOING!  Sometimes the act of pushing through brings with it a new appreciation and perspective.  

This can only add to the heart/meaning of a work of art.

It seems crazy that anyone could become tired of doing good?!?  Isn't doing good motivation in itself?  Life happens.  We see it in the church & we see it in daily life.  People feel underappreciated, dumped on, taken advantaged of, exhausted, and so many other of life's situations.  Such situations are enough to make anyone weary.  However, giving up is not the answer.  JUST KEEP GOING!  Now there may be a need for boundaries, rest, and refocusing....but we must press forward in what God has called us to as we press into him for our strength & peace.  If we keep our eyes on God & our ears attuned to his heartbeat...we will be able to keep going no matter what comes our way.