A Wonderful Opportunity

 The Wednesday night before Christmas, I participated in a service at our church that brought together multiple generations through art and the gospel. Four artists (elementary student, middle school student, me, and a retired person) were asked to create paintings that were our interpretation of Luke 2. They placed our work on stage, and interviewed each of us one at a time. They asked what in the text stood out to us, inspired us, or challenged us & how we represented that within our work. They also asked what stylistic choices we made within our work that helped convey the heart of our art. It was affirming, to me, as a believer & an artist to be a part of this service. The fact that we as artists were given a platform to serve the Lord with our gifts/talents & share the gospel through our work is not something I take for granted. This is not happening in a lot of churches...beyond doing crafts with kids or painting sets for VBS. We ,as believers, need to find the gifts/talents of our people and allow them to use those diverse, amazing, and unique skill sets to build up the body of believers...share God's love, and glorify the Lord. Bakers, automotive, organizers, hair dressers, gardners....can all be done for the glory of the Lord. It's time to view "ministry" as a way of life and not a narrow prescribed job description/role within the church. I loved every work & the words each artist shared. It truly was a blessing.

Talking about my art, choices I made, and the inspiration for it to around 190 people.

Me

Middle School Student

Elementary Student

Retired Art Teacher

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: Endurance

 As an art teacher, I often find myself reminding my students that "GOOD ART TAKES TIME".  For some reason, they want to race through their projects to be the first one complete.  In the rush to finish, their art work truly suffers.  They are messy, incomplete, lacking detail, and not fully developed in concept & composition. I will first tell them to look at their work HONESTLY and see if it is truly their best.  If they can see it is not, I will have them go back and fix it up.  If they tell me it is their best work, then I will take them through the different parts of their picture that might need their attention.  Sometimes during their attempts to complete their work ( the second time), I will hear them complain about something being too hard or that they "can't" do it (reasons why they may have rushed the first time....frustration & lack of confidence).  They need to move past the mental blocks of "TOO HARD" & "I CAN'T".  They aren't just words, but a mind set that traps young artists. This prevents them from finding joy & success in creating.  I can reteach the lesson/concept, work individually with them, and answer questions they might have, but what will benefit them the most is continuing to try their best and being able to work through their frustration.  There is an endurance in art that some do not consider.  Being an artist is like a marathon runner.  Time, practice, and pushing through the frustrations will yield reward.  

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.  And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.  For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of thrown of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

Herbrews 12: 1-2

Our faith walk can be derailed by our mind set.  We allow the world to speak lies into our life that just aren't true.  It may come from media, friendships, or even family. These lies start to  take root in our life, and we find ourselves struggling to move forward. These lies are the things that so easily entangle.  We be believe the lies instead of what the Lord says.  We choose lies over the the truth.  Fixing our eyes on the Lord, pushing through the lies of this world and focuses on THE TRUTH.  It takes work.  It takes time of being uncomfortable. There can be a battle in our heart and mind.  If you continue in the truth and trusting who God says you are...you WILL overcome! Lies will come, situations will rise up again, and wars will rage around you. You will have an endurance because your faith is stronger. When the next time the battles rage...yes...there will be a next time...you will be stronger...IN HIM! The lies will no longer have the same impact they once did. The traps of this world will not snare you. The wounds will not be as deep.  God will get the glory, and you will run the race with endurance....to the victory which He already has won!! 

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: It Shows

 If you spend much time with an artists/art teachers, you will notice something about their hands.  They always seem to have evidence of their work on them.  I personally do not reserve it for my hands only(unfortunately).  My shirts, pants, shoes, face, hair, arms...all tell the story of my work and what I'm investing myself.  A good artist or art teacher is often so involved with what they are doing, that they do not pay attention to such things.  It is just not a real priority.  Their priority is doing what they're passionate about...what they were created to do.  Just look at their hands and you will see the evidence.

Whatever you do, do your work heartily,

 as for the Lord rather than for men.

Colossians 3:23

God has called each of us into "ministry" if you have accepted the Lord as your Savior.  You know that, right?!?  Your ministry may not look like the pastor's, overseas missionary, or Sunday school teacher.  Maybe your ministry is being a mom, custodian, fast food worker, or maybe even an art teacher.  Whatever it is... it should be done as for the Lord.  When we are working as for the Lord...it should be with all of our heart, mind, and might.  People will begin noticing when you serve the Lord with all that you are in whatever your job/ministry is.  Not because you are proclaiming your awesomeness & deeds, but because living a life for the Lord shows on you like an artist's hands.  Your words, work, attitude, and priorities all start looking like they have Jesus all over them!  

How about you?  Does your life have Jesus all over it?  If you feel like people may not be seeing Jesus in you, THAT'S OK!!  We aren't perfect & no one has "arrived".  Each day we have a chance to do better than the day before.  We learn from our mistakes, and we give those areas of our life over to God.  Ask Him to help you see your WHOLE life as MINISTRY!  Try to do all things for God....work, home, friends, play..etc.  When we do this...we are like the hands of an artist, you can't help but see the evidence of their hearts passion.  

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Don't Muddy Things Up!

Art can be messy at times, but some of the messes are not so desirable.   I remember professors telling me I was overworking the surface of my art and muddying it up.  This was not my intent, but my choices(poor choices) led to this unfortunate outcome.   It often occurs when one adds too much, too many ideas, too many colors, too many brush strokes, and creates a "muddy" area in their work.  It comes from rushing. It comes from lack of vision for the end product. It comes from inexperience. It comes from not knowing when to stop. It comes from being stressed. It comes from being tired.  No one intends to make their work appear muddy, but it happens. Though most artists will move beyond these mistakes as they grow/mature in their work, there are a number of factors that can cause one to still muddy things up from time to time. 

I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope.

Psalm 130:5

 Does your life feel "muddy"?   Are things in your world unclear?  Outside circumstances can play a huge part in the struggles we experience, but more often than not we find ourselves at the center of our issues. We try to fix things.  We try to make things happen before their time.  We can't seem to stop ourselves from doing this, that, and the other to make our plans come to fruition.  Our inability to wait on the Lord & his timing can often be the very thing that causes the angst in our life.  We rush relationships.  We push too hard to get ahead at work.  We try to manipulate others to accomplish our goals.  

STOP!  Before you blame anyone else for things not happening in your life...or goals not being achieved.....JUST STOP!  The Psalmist tells us.... I wait on the Lord, MY WHOLE BEING WAITS, and in his word I put my hope.  There are two things in this short verse that pack a punch!  First, "MY WHOLE BEING WAITS".  I'm an anxious person.  I am a doer.  I have a hard time resting, waiting, or being still.  The idea of my whole being waiting on the Lord is a bit hard for me to comprehend.  I mean...I'll wait, but my mind might still be racing.  The Psalmist explains how their whole being waits in the next part of the verse.  IN HIS WORD I PUT MY HOPE.  When we place the truth of God's Word at the center of our life, and our hope is in that truth...we can wait with our whole being.  

When our world seems "muddy", our direction is unclear, and our hearts are confused....WAIT ON THE LORD WITH YOUR WHOLE BEING...AND PLACE YOUR HOPE IN HIS WORD!  There you will find clarity.  There you will find direction.  There you will find peace.  There you will find HOPE!

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: Risks

As an artist (and I'd say many other fields/professions), stepping out of the "norm" is a part of growing.  However, risk taking isn't always valued.  People often value routine & those that "get with the program".  I know this sounds absurd in relation to the arts. In college, I was told I should switch to oil because my themes were not appropriate for watercolor. This professor was of the mindset that "proper" watercolor was all about nouns (people, place, things), and should not express anything deeper. This truly bothered me because I felt art was about pushing boundaries & taking risks. Why would I be told that my risks were not appropriate for a specific medium?  I found a way to continue pursing the themes/subject matter I wanted, and feel that I grew personally & artistically because of the challenges I encountered along the way.  Risks have a way of doing that! 

 When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, come down immediately.  I must stay at your house today."  So he came down a once and welcomed him gladly.  All the people saw this and began to mutter, "He has gone to be the guest of a sinner."  But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, "Look, Lord!  Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount."  Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham.  For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost."

Luke 19: 1-10

Jesus did not always make "popular" choices.  In the case of Zacchaeus, Jesus truly went against "acceptable" behavior by going to his home.  Zacchaeus was a tax collector, and a pretty self serving one at that.  No one would want to go to the home of someone known to basically steal from everyone in that community.  However, Jesus could see beyond what others saw in Zacchaeus.  He knew that if given the chance Zacchaeus would change his life around.  It just took someone taking a "risk".  By going against what was "acceptable", Jesus showed love to someone who was in desperate need!  Am I talking about Zacchaeus now...or us?  Before Jesus, we were just as unacceptable as Zacchaeus.  Sometimes we forget that we were/are just as much in need of a Savior.  

Do you know someone that needs you to take a "risk"?  A friendship, an invitation to church, a kind word or deed done in the name of Jesus.....could change someone's world.  Be the risk taker the Lord created you to be!  Be willing to stick your neck out.  I bet you will see a change...in yourself!(it is in God's hands regarding the heart of the other person).  

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Model Encouragement

Encouragement is such an important part of my job as an art educator.  Though you have to give students honest feedback to help them to grow/improve....you must be careful to do it in a way that will not cause them to become discouraged.  Discouragement is often the reason people stop pursing artistic endeavors (visual, music, writing, and performing). There are times that this can be challenging.  We don't want to lie. We don't want to overly inflate elements of the work that truly need greater attention and exploration.  The encouragement needs to be directed toward the artist. 

 "I really like the ideas you're sharing through your work." 

"Your perspective is unique and special."

"I love the effort I see you are putting into that project."

"You are making interesting choices."

Your goal is to build up the artist.  When they feel valued, encouraged, and cared about you are able to address the parts of their work that needs extra attention, without discouraging them.  It does no good to tear down an artist to the point that they feel they are no longer unable to to improve upon their work or doubt their skills.  The goal is to impower students to create & improve upon their creations.  

A beautiful side effect to actively encourage the artists in my classroom is having students begin speaking words of encouragement to their peers.  They may mention something about their work, but often it is directed toward the artist and their efforts & ideas.  Though many are natural encouragers, modeling this behavior to our students will build a foundation of encouragement in their lives. 

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

1 Thessalonians 5:11

EVERYONE is in need of encouragement. It seems to have become a lost "art".  Words of affirmation, admiration, and appreciation are greatly lacking. This is not only in "the world", but within the church and amongst believers.  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.  Encouragement should flow from the core of who we are because what the Lord has done for us.  If we do not see it happening in our own life, we must make a conceited effort to make it happen. If we do not see it in the lives of those around us...we need to model encouragement to others through a genuine heart for the people God has placed around us.  If we don't "feel" it, ask God to give you a deeper appreciation for those around you.  Ask him to let you see their gifts, talents, and skills, and their past, present, and potential impact.  As we become more purposeful about encouraging others...the behavior will become a habit.  This habit will be noticed and begin impacting those around you. Can you image your circle of friends/family/coworkers all encouraging and appreciating those around them. How would that impact individuals, groups, and communities? 

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Old & New

Many artists are inspired by the things of "their" past or the things of "the" past. Events, both good and bad, can yield amazing inspiration.  It can provide content and context for amazing artistic endeavors.  There is a "comfort" and working from what has already taken place. Ideas, symbols, mood, individuals, circumstances, and even color can be already prescribed and easily adapted.  Others artists live for invention and innovation.  The new excites them, and they want little to do with things of old.  It could be that that they don't want to be accused of doing what has already been done, they have a deep desire for what is to come, or that "their" past  or "the" past is not something that they wish to explore or exploit through their work. Whatever the case might be, the challenge of creating something new is stepping into the unknown boldly.

I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old.

Psalm 77:11

See, I am doing a new thing!  Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?  I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. 

Isaiah 43:19

Reflecting on the past can be both painful and empowering.  Many have experienced traumatic events (even within the church) that changed the course of their lives. Though this is understandably painful, so many find strength and mission through the overcoming.  God is able to redeem our struggles, and helps us to flourish despite our past pain.  Some use these experiences to connect with others in similar situations, and help them to process through the past & find peace in the present. The past also allows us to see when God met us where we were.  Seeing his faithfulness allows us to approach new situations knowing he is there.

As much as the past can guide us in our present and future....God often wants to do a "new thing" in our life.  This too requires us to trust in him.  We know that when he guides us in new circumstances that he will provide a way.  When we find ourselves outside of our comfort zones, we find ourselves before our God in a new way.  We can no longer rest on what we know.  We must rest in the arms of our Lord.  

In the old & the new....God is there. 

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: Don't "Brush" It Off

 Most painters rely on traditional tools to create their masterpieces. Brushes are crucial tool for a majority of painters. The size, style, and quality of brush are of paramount importance.  However, brush maintenance is also a crucial element to a successful painting.  If you do not take care of your brushes, you will shorten their usefulness & life expectancy.  Allowing paint to dry can create an unbending non receptive surface for paint to transfer to or from. Paint brushes left to soak to long can begin to loosen the hairs and cause shedding to occur. It can also ruin the finish on the handle of the brush which makes it extremely uncomfortable to use. Improper storage of one's brushes can cause the bristles to bend in a way that causes great difficulty.   An artist knows that to be their best they must not neglect the "house keeping" aspect of their craft. It cannot be "brushed off".

All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.  

2 Timothy 3: 16-17

With all my heart I have sought You: Do not let me wander from Your commandments.

Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against you.

Psalm 119: 10-11

Believers can become neglectful of important "disciplines".  Some believers may just not like "disciplines" of faith because they feel too much like work.  However, if we neglect reading God's Word, praying, fellowship with other believers....we are setting ourselves up for a life that does not have the power, impact, or the vibrancy God intended.  Like the ridged bristles of a brush that has not properly been cleaned....we become ineffective in our faith.  We are not able to be used by God as he designed us to be.   Even though discipline may feel like work at times, you quickly realize the importance, impact, and joy faithfully seeking God out in His Word, through prayer, or even having a mentor relationship can bring to your life.  Like the artist knows they must be disciplined in cleaning their brushes to be able to use them to their full potential...so the believer must know that Christian discipline allows them to live out their life of faith to its full potential. 

Do you want to learn more about Christian Disciplines & deepening your walk with the Lord?

Check out Celebrations of Discipline by Richard Foster & 

Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life by Donald Whitney. 

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Without Words

A work of art can tell a story that a book could never contain.  I have stared into a painting and felt like I was not only experiencing the moments being captured, but the back story that led to those moments. I've also returned to a work, and gained new insight & felt as if I had discovered more of the story that I thought I already knew.  I've pondered how time "dealt" with the subject within a given work, and what happened next.  It is also interesting how a work of art can bring peace to one, but challenge another.  It is a beautiful thing when art speaks to the heart...right where that person is at in their journey.  Without words... art can speak volumes to those who are willing to spend time in it's presence. 

The heavens declare the glory of God;
    the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
 Day after day they pour forth speech;
    night after night they reveal knowledge.
 They have no speech, they use no words;
    no sound is heard from them.
Yet their voice goes out into all the earth,
    their words to the ends of the world.
In the heavens God has pitched a tent for the sun

Psalm 19: 1-4

There are times in our life when we feel distant from God.  

There are times where we wonder if he is still there.  

CAN YOU HEAR ME LORD? 

DO YOU HEAR MY PRAYERS? 

DO YOU HEAR MY CRIES?

DO YOU CARE?

What do we do when we feel like God is not there?  We acknowledge it! We tell him how we are feeling.  Once we've said all we have in our hearts to say.....we close our mouths & open our eyes.  We look to see God at work around us.  If we are struggling to see that....we look to nature (Which has always found a way to praise the Lord).  The Earth still spins.  The Sun still shines. The stars are still in the sky.  The moon still lends its reflection to show us the way in the night. Birds take flight.  Flowers dance in the breeze. God is still there.  We see his handy work. We see the master artist who took so much care in creation...surely he still cares for me and the things that concern my heart.  Without words...God speaks to me through his creation.  He reassures me he is still God, he is still on the throne, he is still in control....and he still cares for me. Without words...he reminds me my story continues and he is not done working in & through me. 

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: Different & Specific

This past week I was painting with my 3rd and 4th graders.  As I was doing a quick demonstration of the day's project, I told them that I'd be providing them a variety of brushes, and that they should use the right brush for the job.   As I walked around the room, I had to remind them that I had given them a variety of brushes, and that they should use the big brush for big spaces, medium brush for medium spaces, and the small brushes for small/thin/detailed spaces. After saying the same thing to several students, I asked the class to stop what they were doing and give me their attention.  I went to my document camera and pulled the brushes from my water cup to show the students exactly what they had.  I then showed the class why, how, and where I'd use each of the brushes.  Each brush served a different & specific purpose that was important in the creation of their paintings.  Without them... it would be more challenging and less effective.  Knowing the purpose and practice of the different brushes will yield a stronger work of art. 

 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: 6-10

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.

1 Peter 4:10

There are times that we do not realize or embrace how God has wired us.  We may look at others and feel they are truly serving God, but feel we have little to offer.  Each of us has been given gifts/talents/skills that the Lord desires to see used for his glory & to minister to/serve others. Our gifts are different & specific.  This is for a reason.  The body of believers is meant to work together to fulfill what the Lord has give us to accomplish.  Each has a beautiful and unique contribution.  Like the brushes I gave my students, one brush could be used to create the entire painting, but it would not be very effective.  The painting would suffer because of it.  We are all different. We have different personalities, skill sets, strengths, passions...just as God designed us.  We have a specific purpose in God's plan.  It may not look the same as mine.  It might not look like anything you've seen before.  THAT'S OK.  As we seek God...to know him & serve him...we will see more of who we are meant to be.  As we grow in this,  we will grow in the confidence of who he has created us to be.

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Significant

I was always amazed how my grandmother could repurpose so many things that others would have just throw away.  She would use coffee cans to plant flowers, glass jars to "root" new plants from clippings, and old fabric was reimagined till it would be nothing but threads.  An old dress would be turned into an apron when it no longer served its original purpose. Sometimes the fabric from old dresses, shirts, and the like would be turned into beautiful quilt pieces that she lovingly put together.   When the fabric was not good enough for quilt squares...old aprons, shirts, jeans, and even panty hose would find new life in rag rugs(which she used all over her house and gave them away to others as well). Most would throw away such items when they no longer served their original purpose. These humble materials were not insignificant to her. She saw the potential they possessed. In my grandmother's hands they had new life with purpose, beauty, and a story to share.  In the right hands, things that seem insignificant to most... can be turned into something significant. 

Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to his disciples to distribute to the people. He also divided the two fish among them all. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces of bread and fish.

Mark 6: 41-43

There are times in our lives that we feel we have little to give. We may not have much money, time, skill/talent, knowledge, training, or other such things.  We may feel we've been through too much or done too many wrongs to be worth anything.  We feel insignificant.  Unable to truly contribute.  These are lies.  In the scripture above, we see the boy gave his small seemingly insignificant lunch to Jesus, and it fed the multitude.  It was not based on the talent and training of the boy.  It was not based on the amazing meal he was offering.  It was simply making what he did have available.  God has a way of bringing new life, purpose, beauty, and a story to share to those who are willing.  Come as you are.  He knows the potential you possess even if you do not! 

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: The Best

As an educator, I believe it is important to give back to the community that has given me so much over the years. That is why I have this blog, social media accounts, take on practicum students, student teachers, and lead professional development.  If others wouldn't have shared their experiences, knowledge, and passion with me along the way...I truly believe I'd not be where I'm at presently. It is my heart as an educator.  It is a joy for me.  Plus, I want others to be the best they can be!  I believe we are better together.  I believe when other art educators succeed it is a victory for all of us.  ALSO...there is a strong chance that my children will one day be in the art room of someone who has crossed paths with me. If I can encourage my children's future art teacher in some way to help them be the best they can be...you better believe I'm going to do it!  

 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

Colossians 1: 9-14

I love this section of scripture from Colossians.  You see right away the deep desire Paul has for the believers in Colossea to mature in their faith.  He prays specifically for them to bear fruit, grown in God, strengthened in power, have great endurance and patience, and to give joyfully.  He doesn't just say, "Bless them Lord!"  He gets specific.  We have the ability (like Paul) to make a difference in others' lives.  When the Lord has truly impacted our life, it is only natural that we would want to help impact the lives of others.  He has blessed us with gifts, talents, and skills that can be used to challenge and encourage other believers that he has placed in our path.  We should desire to help others be the best they can be for the glory of God.  Now this doesn't mean that they should be more like you, the pastor, or some other person.  We need to help and encourage others to be the best they can be.  God has wired all of us with a purpose and a plan ...unique and wonderful.  As the Lord has you can be the best you...as you encourage others to be the best them!  

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: OVERFLOWING

During my student teaching, I asked my co-operating teacher what she was working on currently.  She said, "You mean art?  Honey, you will see that once you start teaching that you just won't have the time or desire to create any more!  The last thing you'll want to do is pick up a paint brush at home after teaching art all day long."  WHAT?  That seemed absurd to me at the time.  I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that would not happen to me! 

As artists, there is an urge/longing/desire to create. It is at the core of who we are.  If we are not creating, something out of balance in our lives.  We all go through "seasons".  There are seasons where we are creating up a storm, but at other times we find ourselves walking through an artistic wasteland struggling to have even a creative thought. 

 At first, I was able to maintain that balance of teaching & creating.  I was sure that my co-operating teacher just didn't know how to organize her life in such a way that would allow for her to easily continue artistic pursuits. However, once I got married & we began having children, I realized how easy it was to "lose" that aspect of my life.  

Therefore, as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.

Colossians 2:6-7

I feel this same thing can happen in our faith as well.  We can get so busy with living life that we forget who we are in Him, the training we received, who He made us to be, and what He wanted our lives to look like.  But how can we combat this?  I feel if we embrace the last part of verse 7...we may have our answer.  OVERFLOWING WITH GRATITUDE!  Gratitude comes when we are aware of our position before Christ, and the true gift He gave us through His life, death, resurrection, and opportunity for reconciliation in & through Him!  If our lives are grounded in the attitude of gratitude for all the things He has done....how could we ever lose site of Him & who He made us to be in our day to day?  Others will see Christ in us & it will impact every area of our life because of the OVERFLOWING!

With my art, I've learned to keep an art journal or sketch pad handy.  I know that I might not have time to do large scale works of art, but I can still create small sketches/designs in my journal.  This helps to feed my creative soul. Through this I've been inspired to create larger pieces or develop ideas for larger pieces. That would not be possible if I allowed the artist I was created to be to flounder in unrealized potential.   My spiritual soul needs to be feed as well.  Not only do I need to realize who He is & who I am in Him, but I need to continually grow my relationship with the Lord.  It might be times of prayer, fellowship with other believers, reading a Christian book on my iPad, or reading the Word on an app (or the old fashion way..an actual paper Bible!).  Whatever it is...for something to be OVERFLOWING continually...the source needs to be pouring into it!  

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Support

There are so many things within art that I'd love to do. I've been fortunate enough to try my hand at a large variety of media and skills over the years. However, it would be unrealistic for me to do ALL THE THINGS!  If I investing all my time and attention into attempting everything...I'd hardly develop anything.  Finding my passion and investing myself into that is going to provide better yield.  I can admire, value, and benefit from other artists' work.  I can encourage and support those creating in different ways than myself.  We have the ability to cheer on others in the arts as they create, fail, succeed, and pursue our heart's passion.  As we support one another, the art community grows stronger.....and we are all better for it. 

If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.

Romans 12:7-8

We were never meant to do "ALL THE THINGS" on our own. God has given us unique talents, skills, and callings that will fulfill his plans and purposes.  We must not only do our part, but support those around us so they can do theirs.  We often rank such things in levels of importance.  However, this is wrong thinking.  Introvert/Extrovert, on stage/behind the scenes, preachers/cleaning crew....God's unique design for each of us displays an amazing puzzle where each piece has its place in creating the whole picture.  If one piece were missing the picture would be incomplete. 

Are you living out who you are?

Are their things that you need to lay aside so you can invest yourself into those things that are most important?

How can you support those around you to be the best they can be?  

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Reflect

 Art is most often a reflection of the one creating it.  You may see the artist using their favorite color(s), a theme or subject matter that is important to them, geographic indicators within the work, a particular or unique style, a preference of materials they enjoy using, or even the size of their work.  Even if an artist creates work that is photorealistic, this identifies a value or skill that can be connected to that given artist.  We can even see different periods in an artist's life be reflected in what and how they have created ( Picasso's Blue & Rose periods!). There are times that a commission may warrant an artist lay aside their personal aesthetic as to fulfill a client's wishes.  However, when they create their own personal work.... it will once again reflect who they are. 

As water reflects the face,

 so one’s life reflects the heart.

Proverbs 27:19

If someone followed you around at home, at work, and at play.....what would they see?  Does who you say you are, what you say you value, and the priorities you espouse get reflected in your everyday life? None of us are perfect.  We are inconsistent at times.  We have bad days.  However, could someone look at your life and see what is most important to you?  

Those of us who have a personal relationship with the Lord should reflect that truth in and through every aspect of our life.  I am loved.  I am forgiven.  I am a child of God.  I am not alone.  I am a new creation.  I am created for a purpose.  I am accepted.  I am empowered.  AND SO MUCH MORE!  

If these things are true...shouldn't our lives reflect that?  

What is keeping you from experiencing this?

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Room

Is it on trend? Are they using the latest greatest supplies? Is it tackling contemporary issues? Does it push the boundaries of what we've seen before? Does it speak to all the social and political issues?  

Art is BIG!!  Sometimes people try to control what art is by trying to make it fit in a box.  That's art.  That's not art.  That's good art. That's not good art.  That person is an artist. That person is not an artist.  Is there not enough room in our world for people to create and not have to "fit" into a certain mold?   People create because it is within them to do so.  It connects them with their past. It helps process the present.  It gives them hope for the future.  Maybe they just want to make something pretty for their home.  Maybe they want to address issues they wrestle with.  Maybe they use craft paint from Wal-Mart. Maybe they use expensive "professional" grade paint from a fancy art store.  We should encourage everyone to create / make.  Art's worth can not be put into a box. There is room outside of the box for so much more.  

There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.

1 Corinthians 12:4-6

Often when we think about those who "serve" the Lord...we list people/jobs like pastor, youth leader, missionary, bible study leader, choir/praise team director, or children's minister. We tend to have a narrow view of what it means to serve the Lord. We put serving God in a box.   Serving the Lord is volunteering to help clean up after an event.  Serving the Lord is rounding up supplies to give to the pregnancy help center or food pantry.  Serving the Lord is helping your neighbor with their yard.  Serving the Lord is working at fast food restaurant and doing your very best to honor God.  Serving the Lord is telling that mom in the store with the screaming baby...she is a great mom and doing her very best.  There is room for all kinds of service that will honor and bring glory to God.  He has gifted each of us in such unique ways.  Lets embrace who we are and serve God with all that we are. 

What do you see as one of the things God has gifted you to serve him with?  

Creating!

 I was not able to write my weekly Sunday Devotional With Mr. E this week.

(For those of you new here...almost every Sunday for the past 5 years I've written a post that connects art and faith.  I normally post that Sunday morning.)  My church asked me if I'd create a painting to co along with the new sermon series.  I LOVE that they want to include visual art...I've always felt that was something churches should embrace....allowing people to use their gifts/talents/skills to contribute to what the church does.  However, something had to give.  I'm a husband, father of three, and a full time art teacher.  I just don't have enough hours in the day.  So...I decided I'd invest the time I usually put into writing my weekly devotional into my painting (and a bunch of other hours I squeaked out here and there!).  It is 24 in x 48 in acrylic painting.  I'm not exactly sure when/how it will be used, but excited to see the church embracing us arty types!! ha ha 

 

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Express

Artists produce work for a variety of reasons.  There are times they create to display skill, make money, fulfill others' visions, work through ideas for future pieces, etc.  Some of these reasons are "detached" from the heart, emotion, and passions of the artist. The work possess value/merit, and is very much a part of every artist's journey.  However, there is something powerful & compelling about work that comes from the depths of one's experiences.  When an artists creates from that raw and present place of where they are, amazing things can come to fruition. A person struggling with loss can imbue their work with the pain & confusion that comes with such emotion.  The work may take on a style, color palette, and compositional construct that is different from the "normal" for that artist. This may allow the viewer to connect with a work in a way that might not have happened if the artist wouldn't have allowed themselves to create out of that "place".  That is an amazing gift.  The artist can express/communicate emotions in a way that resonates with others like little else can. We are able to to meet the viewer where they are, and share our humanity.

Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.  Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult.  On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.  For, "Whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech.  They must turn from evil and do good; they must seek peace and pursue it.

1 Peter 3:8-11

I'll admit that my art is rarely angry, depressing, or full of angst.  It isn't who I am.  I've always been a more positive personality that can find/see the good in almost anyone/any situation. For me to create "angry" art in order to reach new viewers would be unauthentic.  Even during times of struggle in my life there is always hope in my work. 

 We have a hope/peace that passes all understanding.  This is not to say that we can't wrestle with loss, anger, pain, confusion, or frustration. I know many who love the Lord with all their heart, and they battle with depression, anxiety, and other struggles.   I have not made it through life this far without my share of such things. However, I know that I'm wired differently, and these struggles do not over take me.  I've always found myself holding onto the peace that only God can provide.  So if I can speak hope, love, and encouragement to those around me...I will.   I don't want to fall into the trap of negativity that our world seems to be elevating/promoting...even when I am struggling with "life".  I want to be able to be a light in the darkness for the believer and nonbeliever.   I want to be able to speak life & truth to people that so desperately need it.  I want to express it with my all & all.  

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: ALL

"I DID MY BEST!"

This phrase has been uttered by my students too often over the past few years.  At first, I didn't think much of it.  Then I started noticing it was used almost like a defense mechanism or an excuse.  I would start talking to them about their art work and the areas that needed their attention...."I DID MY BEST!"  I would try to continue talking to them, and they would cut me off again.... "I DID MY BEST!".  

Excuse me? 

I always expect my students to do their best.  Why would they do anything less than?  However, we know there are times that we try to get away with less than our best. Art takes all that we are.  Sometimes though, we just don't have it all to give. 

 For from him and through him and for him are all things. 

To him be the glory forever! Amen.

Romans 11:36

Are you giving your all in all to God? Our relationship with the Lord is not only on Sunday mornings & Wednesday nights.  It is not only when we are praying or reading his Word.  I believe the division most make between the secular and sacred is wrong.  In all that we do we should be living our lives for the Lord.  The relationships we have or are building should not be devoid of who we are as believers.  The work that we do should be done as one who wants to honor God in all that they do. Our lives should be informed by our faith. When we create, when we love, when we go about our days...all of it is from him, through him, and for him.  

What can you say about your life in regards to your all in all?  I DID MY BEST?  Great.  Is there more that you need to do?  Does your whole life reflect your relationship with God? Are there areas that you still draw a line between secular and sacred?  Go to God and ask him to show you what it would look like for your all in all.  

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: A Need for Happy

  I value art work that evokes feelings of pain, sadness, and loneliness.  I know, that might sound a bit depressing. However, those are real feelings that are a parts of the human experience.  There is something cathartic about connecting to such things.  It helps one to feel less isolated.  As much as there is a need for the above mentioned art work, there is also a need for art that is bright, joyful, and at times silly.  Some may consider it to be less serious art.  THAT'S OK!!   There are times I'm too serious, and need something to snap me out of it! There is a place for the beautiful, colorful, and humorous. There is a need for happy art. 

For everything there is a season...

Ecclesiastes 3:1a

(This whole section of scripture is amazing...and worth your time to look up!)

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.

Ephesians 4:29

There are times life can bring us down. There are times others can bring us down.  There are times we can bring ourselves down.  No matter the cause we can all find ourselves in negative place.  Sometimes justifiably. (I have a hard time trusting people that say they never get down, never wrestle with things, and never ride the struggle bus.  "For everything there is a season..."!!)  However, we must find a way out of the darkness/sadness/pain.  At times, we have a need for happy.  We need those people that will speak life.  Speak love.  Speak words of encouragement to our heart.  At times, we need to be the happy for those around us.  Our words do have power...though we need to choose them wisely.  Our ears have power as well....we must not forget to listen.  Our presence is often the most important element. People need to feel like they are not alone.  Sometimes the greatest ministry God give us is to be a friend. There is a need for happy....and you can be that happy to the glory of God.