Watching this painter at work also taught me a great deal about ministry and how during a time when knowledge and theology is deemed to be paramount to the work, we dare not forget that ministry is also an art.
Consider, for example, how our questions can shape much of our ministry. Without asking good questions we often cannot see the larger picture or see with clarity and purpose. Sometimes, we need to begin with questions—a blank slate—before we begin making decisions or acting in ministry. Questions can form our responses.
Another ministry art is listening. For a painter, studying the blank canvas and the palate is essential, but for youth leaders it is essential that we listen well and form our judgments and responses from what we hear. Our ears are like the blank canvas to a painter.
Likewise, painters often must experiment to find the painting inside the paint. A youth leader also must be willing to concede that he or she does not have all the answers to particular problems or challenges in ministry. As such, youth leaders must be willing to try new ministry approaches and techniques. Sometimes the old ways or the tried-and-true is no longer effective. Change is necessary, perhaps essential.
Finally, there is also an art to patience. No great work ever is complete hastily. Ministry takes time. People are works-in-progress. God is never done working on us—especially while still teenagers. We must extend the grace of time to those with whom we work. Patience is also an art; and in offering it, we are keeping the big picture in mind and trusting that God will create a beautiful outcome.
Don’t forget to work your own art into your ministry. There is no other artist who’s like you.
