VICAR

Dear Readers of Country Squire Magazine, I trust that I find You well and healthy. As I look outside it seems more November than May. I hope that You are enjoying life and that any troubles can be put aside this Sunday.

This week I would like to give thanks for the artists. I read something beautiful this week written by an artist that I’d like to share with you now:

The highest possible goal for humankind would be a world where we were all artists. Art is the bi-product of someone who creates for no reason other than a deep love for the creation itself. They do not act for external reward, status, money, attention or recognition. Nor do they act out of duty, fear or guilt. In this pure loving state they develop a zen-like relationship to their art and are thus able to perform to such a high level that it almost seems to transcend earthly existence. Art does not require art school, promoters or managers, nor does it require intellectual chattering and endless babble. Art doesn’t require a language. Art IS a language. The artist need not pose in art galleries or hang out in cafes. There is no requirement for membership to any particular social, financial or educational class. The artist doesn’t have to paint or sing or dance. The artist can sweep streets, decorate cakes or train dogs. Thus the potential to be an artist is available to everyone. The main thing is the depth, quality and intensity of the relationship to their art. True art is the closest a human being can get to being like a God. It is creation in the purest sense of the word and based on love for the very act of creation itself. Learn to love what you do. You will be an artist and you will create art.

I am reminded of Ecclesiastes 3:11 ESV –

He has made everything beautiful in its time. Making something beautiful takes time. Art is not an immediate return on investment. Art takes time to produce.

Within the Christian faith there has always been a great tradition of art. We have never shied away like other religions from painting Jesus or the saints. As I sit in the church there is art everywhere and that is a great blessing. Please try and find the time to look at some art and just say thank You to God.

I wish You all a pleasant Sunday and a successful week ahead. Try to lose any hate. Be positive and focus on Your own foibles.

God Bless You all.

Bless the creators, O God of creation,
who by their gifts make the world
a more joyful and beautiful realm.
Through their labors
they teach us to see more clearly
the truth around us.
In their inspiration
they call forth wonder and awe
in our own living.
In their hope and vision
they remind us
that life is holy.
Bless all who create in your image,
O God of creation.
Pour your Spirit upon them
that their hearts may sing
and their works be fulfilling.
Amen.