Can Art Be Used to Change Lives?

This excerpt from Theresa Dedmon’s book Born to Create shows us how God can use a work of art to transform a life and beyond.

“A similar example of how God touches people through visions and activates their imaginations to bring transformation is the story of Count Zinzendorf, the leader responsible for the Moravian movement of the 17th century. His model for 24-hour prayer and worship as well as modern-day missions, has impacted churches today in bringing revival around the planet. But how did Count Zinzendorf get his inspiration.

During his Grand Tour (a rite of passage for young aristocrats) Nicholas (Count Zinzendorf) visited an art museum in Dusseldorf where he saw a Domenico Feti painting titled Ecce Homo, “Behold the Man.” It portrayed the crucified Christ with the legend, “This have I done for you-Now what will you do for me?” The young count was profoundly moved and appears to have had an almost mystical experience/vision while looking at the painting, feeling as if Christ Himself was speaking these words to his heart. He vowed that day to dedicate his life to service to Christ. (from Influence of a Painting, Count Zinzendorf: Christian Biography)

As you approach your next creation, think about the influence it may have. Think about the lives that might be touched as God uses your work. Creativity is more than just us “making stuff.” Done properly it is us connecting with the Lord and making the things He lays on our hearts visible to the rest of the world. Allowing Him to influence and inspire our work will allow us to create work that influences and inspires, work that has an impact on lives for good and for God, maybe even work that will be used to draw many into His Kingdom.

As Christian creatives, isn’t that the ultimate goal?