a christian's creativity

i stumbled upon this quote from an author named Thomas Merton.

i wanted to share it because i think its a really cool reminder of how the gift of creativity (that we ALL have in some way, shape or form) works...

The way for sacred art to become more “creative” is not just for the artist to study new and fashionable trends and try to apply them to sacred or symbolic themes. It is for the artist to enter deeply into his Christian vocation, his part in the work of restoring all things in Christ. But this is not his responsibility alone. This is the responsibility of the whole Church and everybody in it.

-- Thomas Merton

we can study,

we can learn,

we can practice,

we can perfect techniques - 

but because the gift, the inspiration, the ability ALL come from God-

we can't do any of it without Him.

we can't create anything without Him.

we wouldn't have the gifts, wouldn't have the material, wouldn't have the ideas or the ability if He didn't give them to us.

so the only way to really grow in it or to know creativity to its fullest potential - 

is to know God.

it needs to be an overflow, a response to what God is doing in us.  

and the amazing thing about how God put it all together?

is that not only do we need to know God in order for our creativity to grow -

but once we make the time to be intentional about using our gifts?

we get to experience GOD on a whole new level.

its not just a gift we're tapping into - 

its God Himself.

and the rest is up to Him.  its amazing.

truly amazing to look at all that He is and all that He has done for us.

amazing.

-ALIVE