Exploring Street Theology

A local artist who ran an art class 

What was it that the poet, W H Davis said, “what is this life if full of care, we have no time to stand and stair.” I must admit that since my birthday gift in June of an electric bike, i have begun to appreciate the artistic handiwork of God in a new way. I see afresh sites and scenes that I would have missed when rushing here and there in the car.

To see an artist at work is mesmerising. I recall as a child on holiday with my family in St Ives in the late 50s, how my brother and I stood by a potters window enthralled as with craftsman skill he formed a beautiful vase from a lump of inert clay. I wonder what his first attempts were like? 

There is something beautiful about viewing and appreciating an artist’s work and there is something sacred in allowing the coordination of hand, eye and mind to bring into being something beautiful for God; remembering that we are in a sense co-creating with the Creators material freely given to us to use. And what is most wonderful of all is that, “you can’t use up creativity, the more you use the more you have.” Maya Angelou. This reminds me of the words of a hymn that says, “when we reach the end of our hoarded resources, our Fathers full giving is only begun.”

Three bible verses come to mind; Isaiah 64:8 But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand. Exodus 28:3 You shall speak to all the skilful, whom I have filled with a spirit of skill, that they make Aaron's garments to consecrate him for my priesthood. Romans 12:6 Having gifts that differ according to the grace given.

The first reveals that we are the creative handiwork of God. The second how God calls for us to use our creative skills as part of worship as we share his glory. And the third encourages us to use our mosaic of skills and talents as a means of grace in themselves. I like the hymn that says; why not read it prayerfully and let the artist hidden within you begin something beautiful for God.

Come to us, creative Spirit,

in this holy house;

ev'ry human talent hallow,

hidden skills arouse,

that within your earthly temple,

wise and simple may rejoice.

Poet, painter, music-maker,

all your treasures bring;

craftsman, actor, graceful dancer,

make your offering;

join your hands in celebration: 

let creation shout and sing!

Word from God eternal springing,

fill our minds, we pray;

and in all artistic vision

give integrity:

may the flame within us burning

kindle yearning day by day.

In all places and forever

glory be expressed 

to the Son, with God the Father 

and the Spirit blest:

in our worship and our living

keep us striving for the best.

Words © 1979 Stainer & Bell (admin. Hope Publishing Company, 380 S Main Pl, Carol Stream, IL 60188) CCLI 81480