Recently I was attending a gathering of artists and arts leaders when one stood up and said: “The artists of this creative age are the wedding planners for the wedding feast that is to come.”
Wedding planners! What a crazy notion. Then, the more I let the idea spin around in my brain, the more it resonated. Indeed, a wedding feast is coming; and who, besides the artist, would God tap to orchestrate its song, color, texture and vibe? Who, besides the artist, would He trust to fashion the bridal gown and prepare the hors d’oeuvres? Who besides the church—the consummate bride—would God ask artists to serve?
Recognizing the Artist
Last Sunday in our church’s weekend service, we sang a worship chorus that leveled me in 10 words:
“I see a generation, rising up to take their place.”
From my seat in the sound booth, I stared at each artist on the stage, each artistic person in the pews. I reflected on the artists who have gone before us, creating, innovating and demanding excellence within the four walls of the church. I wiggled my toes and reminded myself that I am standing on their shoulders—that all of today’s artists are—and I smiled.
The artists of old I will never meet, yet they remain my truest heroes. During the great Renaissance, from the 1400s to the 1600s, a handful of believer-artists were brave enough to break from tradition. They stayed focused on the task at hand—bringing glory to God with their art. They pursued excellence and walked in obedience.
In return, the church invested in their lives. She drew them in and nurtured them. Most in the church understood the far reaching importance of God-inspired art. They knew in time the artists’ gifts could touch the masses for God’s glory. The church supported the artist, which helped them to mature in their craft and go on to lead the world in art.
Esteeming the Artist
The same is required of us today. Leader of artists, you are called to be a catalyst for this remarkable group of individuals. Take their hands, walk the creative journey along side them, love them, challenge them and create opportunities where their gifts can be released.
Church leaders who, to this point, have relegated artsy types to the cold, stone steps outside, are called to do something, as well. Embrace the artists who are sitting in your pews longing to find a home. Learn to trust them. Ask their opinions and listen—really listen—to the depth of their creative answers. Anticipate the day when the church serves as frontrunner in terms of artistic truth, artistic innovation and artistic excellence.
Saying Yes to the Artist—and God
We all—artists, arts leaders, church leaders—face a choice. Will we humbly embrace the gifts our Creator has bestowed upon us, and rise like the Spirit of God that is already ‘rousing us within, as
