It is easy for the creative type, especially in ministry pursuits, to neglect the source of the their creativity. After all, there is so much strategy, planning, meeting and brainstorming that goes into an idea before execution, that in the end, we like to think we have earned the right to claim it as ours.
I’d like to push back on that thought for a moment.
While it is certainly understandable and appropriate to take pride in one’s work, the danger enters the picture when we no longer see past ourselves. It is a similar dynamic when you work on a team, and after a project launch, only one person seems to be absorbing the credit. It’s a bit distasteful for the others who provided their blood sweat and tears to pull off the collaboration. But what I am talking about is the neglect of The Source of our creativity. There is a lot at stake when we become self-reliant and self-absorbed in our work.
How many times have you hear that technology is neutral? You know… the technology itself is neutral, and we add morality or amorality to each piece of technology.
I can’t disagree more. Technology always reflects its Creator…
Technology as a Reflection
The invention of the telephone reflects humanity’s desire to connect, and conquer the distance that separates. As does the cell phone and video chat technology. The microwave so reflects our impatience that an entire generation has been nicknamed after the technology.
Twitter not only reflects our desire to be connected, but to be known. To be famous, even. How about the invention of YouTube and blogging, which each reflect our desire to contribute. We want deeply to be a part of something, and to be recognized. We have a need to be heard. I could go on and on, but I think you see what I am saying here; technology is a reflection. Always.
So when we take a look at what we create, we must do so with the understanding that our creation reflects us. What are we saying through our creation?
- Are we creating things that reflect beauty, mercy and grace?
- Are we creating tings that reflect our selfish desire to be validated?
- Are we creating something that reflects something greater?
- Are we creating something that fails to transcend and connect?
These are important questions for every creative to ask themselves, and especially vital for the creatives working to further the cause of Christ and support the Church.
A Creative Theology
So what does this say about a humanity that Scripture teaches, is created in the Creator’s image? We are a reflection of His mysterious, powerful, creative being. So as we create, I feel that we need to be reminded of who we are. Where our identity lies. The great video or blog post or print piece you created is so much more than an individual artistic expression. It is the reflection of an image-bearer of the Creator.
It flows from the same spirit that hovered over the waters and brought beauty out of chaos.
To get to this place, where we truly understand that we are the very art that speaks of God, we must embrace a new way to view our relationship with God. While you may not think of your relationship with God in regards to your personal creativity, there is a direct correlation. When you create or produce, are you prone to absorb the credit, chalking it up to personal genius, or recognize the source of your creativity?
The understanding that our creativity flows from the Creator, and is a powerful motivator and qualifier for the creative. Our creativity is ultimately a reflection of the spirit that seeks to redeem all creation. It is hugely important that we approach our work with this understanding and reverence.
Dave Clark says
Great post and a great reminder for all types of creatives! Good stuff!
SamMahlstadt says
Thanks!
Cynthia Cole Davis says
Great post! Really spoke to me today. “To get to this place, where we truly understand that we are the very art that speaks of God, we must embrace a new way to view our relationship with God.” Powerful. Thank you.
SamMahlstadt says
Glad it had an impact, Cynthia! Thanks for the kind words.
Nate Beaird says
Great post! It’s so easy to get caught up in compliments on works of Creativity, sometimes we need to realize that our source is the most incredible creator. Good word, Sam… now, off to be creative!
SamMahlstadt says
You are so right, Nate. May we never forget from where our creativity flows. Go do your thing! 🙂
Matthew Orley of Akron, OH says
Good Way to Start the morning- Makes me question whether or not I should pay more attention to the customers I choose?:) Regardless, today I will make at least ONE thing GREAT.
SamMahlstadt says
I like that. What do you do, Matthew?