Being Creative - Unbounded by Logic

Well there’s a title to send shivers down the orderly, disciplined spine of one who loves reasoned explanation and well-structured information! In considering spiritual guidance, devotion and growth, ideas of colourful chaos and concepts of abstract seem to me initially as useful as an explosion in a printing shop.   Yet. . . wait a moment - didn’t the all holy God, who established order out of chaos, also bestow imagination and creativity to the world?   Absolutely. Thus their place is no less vital than ‘good theology’ for balanced growth in understanding, appreciation and encouragement of self and others, and to commune with the One who calls not just our minds to respond, but our hearts and spirits also. So, if a little imagination, heart response and fun leads to blessing then, why not?

As David danced before the Ark of the Covenant, without inhibition or concern, so too can we respond before God with sheer exuberance and a love of simply being in the Lord’s presence, offering nothing but ourselves and our love. Complementing this, just as the prophets - and the Lord Jesus himself - often retreated in quiet prayer and meditation, so too can we seek refreshment and nurture in trysting places of peace and renewal with God. This, of course, can work not only on an individual level but also group and community levels; if introduced with love and respect for people’s comfort zones, or indeed to draw them out of them, anything is possible.  

So, what might some of this look like?

Use of Imagery

Imagery can be powerful and emotive in its use, stirring our faculties in a myriad of ways, from peaceful reflections or contemplations on an aspect of God’s nature, to raising righteous anger over a specific injustice in the world; from recognition of our need of humility and repentance, to realising our own awesome place in the kingdom (or realm) of God.

During our REVM time at the Queens Foundation I sat gazing at a picture on a classroom wall that portrayed Christ crucified, with Christ in the form of the multi-armed Hindu goddess Shiva. The first time I saw it, my knee-jerk reaction was that it was just ‘so very wrong!’ However, as I spent more time soaking up the details I came to love the painting because it reflected so much wonder and awe around the liberation Christ brings to people of all cultures, not just those I recognise and/or understand. In the picture, Christ’s ankles are bound in chains that he had clearly broken apart, so the unique and liberating beauty of the painting became all the more exhilarating when I discovered it had been painted by an Asian Christian who, under the Indian caste system, was classed as an ‘untouchable.’ Similarly, my feelings, regarding an all-embracing Jesus where the world is concerned, were strengthened both seriously and in good humour when I contemplated the multi-armed Christ.

Exploring the imagery of God, Christ and Holy Spirit in forms other than those traditionally depicted in church is one way to expand an appreciation of how God might touch our beings with blessing, perhaps even healing, in new and original ways. Some examples of such imagery might be:

• Storms and volcanoes             -              Power
• Sleeping baby                         -              Peace
• Devoted dog                           -              Faithfulness
• Foot-washing                          -              Humility
• Architect’s drawing board       -              Foundations
• Chess game                           -              Future Plans
• Breast-feeding mother           -              Nurturing
• Fire officer in action               -              Rescuing
• Hospice visitor                       -              Love
• Well digging in Africa             -              Charity
• Orchard / field harvesting      -              Hope    

Drawing, painting or depicting in one of an infinite array of crafts, those vivid images that evoke strong emotions and memories for different people in different ways, is a wonderful tool for capturing a certain sense or feeling that may not be expressible in words. For specific joys or hurts, hopes or fears, this allows opportunity to proclaim, to ‘let go’ or simply to explore aspects of thanksgiving for particularly joyful times or find elements of healing for specifically hurtful events. Perhaps, depending on the individual, a blessing of the artwork, or its being sealed up, or a ceremonial burning of the piece may provide (at least in part) the growth, commitment, liberation, healing etc. that is missing at this point of his/her spiritual journey.    

Symbol in Meditation or Prayer

Application of imagery in guided meditation is another creative form of devotion and spiritual growth. By using symbols, a meditative journey can bring stillness, relaxation, healing and a deep sense of simply ‘being’ regarding communication with the divine, without a need for words or analysis; in short, allowing imagination to take the focus point and flow where it will, within and around the guidance provided, rather than concentrating on a specific issue or topic.

A ‘prayer walk’ can focus heart, mind, spirit and body in a gentle journey of contemplation; a literal walk with God, shod or barefoot in accordance with what feels right. Following a defined pattern or maze, walking in a circle, moving in a straight line from point ‘a’ to point ‘b’ and back again, walking indoors or outdoors, in quiet solitude or with a small group - each path is a valid and special way to allow conscious and subconscious to draw near to the Spirit of God. The path itself, the attitude of the body, the rhythm of breathing or heartbeat, an event or an aspect of life, or music (if used) may provide the imagery upon which to meditate on this prayer walk.  

Symbol in prayer can provide another form of journeying with the divine, as a rosary might be used as a tangible guide for thanksgiving, confession, intercession etc. For example, imagining a living creature, such as a bird or a butterfly, alighting on different elements as a way to guide the self through a prayer pattern, something like this:

• Bee hive: Honey                                    -         sweetness/joys/thanksgiving
• Holly bush: Prickly                                 -         problems/concerns
• A very sheepish dog: Guilty/contrite     -             confession
• A clear meadow stream Water              -         cleansing/forgiveness   
• Dying plant/animal: Injury/illness           -         intercession
• Ant nest: Industry                                 -         commitments/hopes

Creative Writing

From Psalms, through centuries of songs, hymns, poetry, liturgy and reflections, creative writing in all its forms has enabled our hearts to sing of joy or lament over sorrow, even if our voices are noiseless and our lips move silently.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the eloquence of the written word and the emotions roused can speak as much to me personally as does my favourite music. As with all art forms, creative writing comes in many different shapes, sizes, colours and sounds; it can be used loudly and joyfully, quietly and devotionally; it can teach, encourage laughter, inform, sadden, communicate love, inspire, bring wisdom, lift spirits; it can be a guide for any to learn from or it may be a personal and private expression of deep emotion.  

I love the honesty of David and the other Psalmists in their writings. Crying to God from raw, open wounds, holding nothing back; lamenting over illness, death and decay; celebrating life, love and victory over enemies; railing and ranting in anger and frustration to a seemingly deaf God; lifting heartfelt thanksgiving to an awesome sovereign and holy God whose grace seems endless and whose acts of love are as countless as grains of sand. Certainly in the practise of (for example) journaling, transparency is a key for expressing, exploring and understanding thoughts and feelings to self and to God.  

Whether reading for inspiration and encouragement etc. or writing in one of many varied forms, creative writing is a useful and joyful tool for liberating the imagination in ways that can ultimately enrich the spiritual life and draw us towards discovering/thinking about aspects of God in new and refreshing ways.

Physical Activity

Being alive can be a celebration in itself; an awareness that “I am wonderfully and fearfully made.” Not everyone is built like an athlete, but for those who are, sport enjoyment and development can be a creative celebration of God-given abilities. I remember with affection, the blessing it was to read both the personal and missionary journals of Eric Liddell; best known as ‘The Flying Scotsman’ during the 1920’s and winning the 400 metres Gold medal at the 1924 Olympics Games; his unforgettable story was portrayed in the film Chariots of Fire. In one of his journals Liddell wrote, “God made me fast and, when I run, I can feel God’s pleasure.”  

I was fast once - feels like a hundred years ago now - and was involved in a variety of sports; even so, the essence of what Eric Liddell said has always remained with me, reminding me that those things I can do well or excel in are, in themselves, a simple way to know God’s pleasure through the elements of my own created being.

It is one thing to excel in sport, but the enjoyment of physical activity is not exclusive to athletes. For example, walking in solitude or in fellowship with others, in the country, or in a forest, or over hills etc. is a tremendous way to give the body a work out and to take in the beauty and creativity of the natural world at the same time. If enjoyed with others, there is also the opportunity to build up relationships, church-wise or external to church; or simply ‘be’ with people without the need to do or say anything particular beyond what’s appropriate for rich, fun and fulfilling friendship/relationship.

Regarding the application of physical activity in ways to enjoy the pleasure of God, another aspect is found in simply helping out those who need a hand; loving one’s neighbour, so to speak, especially those who may not have the physical capabilities, opportunities or freedoms they would like. There are infinite ways to help out, again, either as an individual or as a group, which can certainly be understood in terms of creative worship and praise for an all loving heavenly father/mother; and a practical way to remember that sometimes Jesus doesn’t need sunbeams, but rather men and women prepared to roll up their sleeves and help out. A handful of ideas follow:

• Shopping for the elderly / disabled
• School construction abroad / Well-building abroad
• Ecological volunteer groups to: plant trees / clean rivers and canals / repair dry-stone walls / landscape derelict land for use
• Gardening / decorating for the elderly / disabled
• Visiting those in hospital / hospices / prison
• Dog-walking for incapacitated dog owners
• Transporting those temporarily too weak, ill or incapacitated to drive or take transport alone
• Clearing litter for a community (where the council doesn’t provide the work)
• Decide on a location and provide tea and coffee for the homeless people there – take it round and have a chat over a cuppa
• Volunteer to work in a charity shop somewhere for a few hours a month
• If there is regular contact with those in the deaf community, learn British Sign Language or Sign-Supported English and then use it

Dance and Drama

Further creative areas to enrich worship and devotion are dance and drama.

Dance, as part of a worship service, group or individual ‘quiet time,’ is as limited or boundless in its expression as imagination allows. Dance can interpret music and song in a dimension all its own, without taking anything away from a piece of music or a song’s lyrics; although it may certainly enhance or express something on another level that may not be experienced through the music/song alone. Whether it is simply the encouragement to move, sway, tap toes and clap hands to hymns and choruses, or a well-practised piece of choreography, dance can enhance personal and communal worship, allowing participants to express bodily those thoughts and feelings that even the most eloquent may not be able to express in words.

As with dance, drama is again limited only by the imaginations of those involved in its creation and enactment. Its versatility means that profound points can be visually portrayed, seriously or humorously, for the building up of the church, in an uncomplicated and memorable way. I admit that I can still recall sketches that I watched and enjoyed months and even years ago, but what the sermon was about back then . . . Lord only knows!

Music

“Music soothes the savage beast,” so the saying goes. Being such a subjective medium, however, I sometimes wonder at what passes for music today and am not surprised when the ‘community savage beast’ is not so much soothed as asking neighbours to “turn it down”; or getting annoyed at youngsters with their mobile phones at full blare! Whatever happened to headphones, I wonder?

When music is ‘right’ for the mood and occasion, it can be the most heart-inspiring aid to. . .   Well, to almost anything, including worship. Thankfully, when it does comes to worship, personal or in fellowship with others, we are not biblically instructed to play like some kind of Mozart and sing like those of the calibre of Maria Callas; rather, we are encouraged to make a joyful noise for/to/before the Lord - and no doubt each other. I sometimes wonder if, what might seem to me just a ghastly noise, God has actually quietened his angels to hear, because of the love and sincerity of heart behind it. That said, when accomplished musicians and singers lift praise to God, playing and singing from the heart as much as from ability, the result is truly beautiful and divine.

Whether actually composing and ‘making’ music or simply enjoying it in what ever form that may take (listening, joining in with song etc.), music has, I believe, the capacity to touch the soul in ways other arts cannot. . . as if the soul has a chord at its centre that is affected only by the sound of music.

Misc ‘Stuff’ to Play With

The final notes here are merely ‘throw away’ ideas for being creative or just having a ‘different’ approach towards Christian devotion and growth:

Have a nickname for God/Holy Spirit.

Build a shrine or altar, indoors / outdoors.

Write an original liturgy.

Set a piece of Scripture to music (not a piece that is known to already have music).

Take a favourite psalm and completely restructure it to reflect ‘where I am’ today.

Create a banner / tapestry / backdrop.

If presence and size of garden allows, mark out a path or maze for a prayer walk.

Create a musical instrument out of what is found on ramble in the countryside or along the coastline on a beach.

Make a unique rosary or set of prayer beads that are personal to one’s self.

Create a ‘family tree’ of certain Old Testament and New Testament Biblical characters who inspire, encourage and strengthen one’s self (note why they inspire). Meditate on your new ancestry.

Make a ‘Word-search’ puzzle or a crossword puzzle for the church newsletter, using spiritual words and phrases that are inspiring.

Take a piece of pottery (plate/jug/mug etc.) that represents ‘me’. Smash it. . . and re-create it - using every piece - in a mosaic or picture of some kind to suggest the ongoing creative hand of God in my life.

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