ART OF THE OLYMPIANS

If you’ve been watching the Olympics you’ve seen the beauty of grace in motion.  You’ve seen the art of timing, balance, precision, strategy, and focus.  Not only have we seen strength of will and determination to the point of exhaustion, but we’ve also seen a form of art in the expression of the athletes through their performance, whether in the snow or on the ice.  What they do and do so well is an art.

If we take another perspective of art from the view of a Christ-follower, our understanding of art involves a recognition that art says and does things. Art has always been a part of our history as followers of the Lord.  It has played an important part in the Christian experience.  Lauren Winner, noted author and professor at Duke Divinity School, says, “Art had a purpose.  It taught children to love the Bible.  It schooled viewers in theological stories.  It directed Sunday worshiper’s attention heavenward.” 

The Torahs from which Jews chant in synagogue are written in elaborate, precise calligraphy.  That calligraphy is not merely senselessly beautiful.  The rabbis teach that the calligraphy itself contains meaning, that if only we knew how to read them, the crowns and swirls and flourishes on the calligraphed letters have something to tell us about God. 

Art expresses something and for those who are Christians it is to say something about the Lord God.  As a matter of fact all of our ways of expression should in some way point to God.  We express ourselves through our work, speech, sports, art, body language, music, writing, drama, painting, motion, and relationships.  God says in Proverbs 3:6, In all your ways acknowledge Him, (NAS).  And then in 1 Corinthians 10:31 Whatever you do … everything should be done to bring glory to God (Ph).  Consider how you will express the grace and truth of God this week.  Whether it’s through an art form or simply in your everyday living and interaction with others, purpose to say and do that which praises God.