Art reflects the creative nature of God.
This past Sunday we debuted an art show in the Dome lobby. We are passionate about the arts because we believe that they reflect the creative nature of our God. The Bible tells us that we are each given gifts to build up the body of the church. The visual arts, photography, sculpture, dance, music and so many other forms of expression are inspired by God and can lead us to worship Him.
This year we have been studying the Kings of Israel and specifically King David. As a shepherd king, he was a man of the outdoors and one of the greatest song writers of all time.
David wrote at least half of the 150 Psalms in the Bible and many of the Psalms focus on nature.
The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. -Psalm 24:1 (NLT)
The Bible tells us that all of creation is worshipping the creator God.
And then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea. They sang: “Blessing and honor and glory and power belong to the one sitting on the throne and to the Lamb forever and ever." -Revelations 5:13
Nature displays the splendor of our Creator.
The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. -Psalm 19:1-2 (NLT)
So you'll go out in joy, you'll be led into a whole and complete life. The mountains and hills will lead the parade, bursting with song. All the trees of the forest will join the procession, exuberant with applause. - Isaiah 55:12 (MSG)
Creation gives proof that God exists.
As we look at the beauty in nature, we see the fingerprints of God and evidence of His design. Paul tells us in his book to the Romans that creation gives us the proof that God exists and is all powerful.
For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. -Romans 1:20 (NLT)
The beauty of God's handiwork leads us to worship Him.
When we enjoy the genius of our God in creation, the beauty will capture our hearts and make us long to worship.
The whole earth falls to its knees— it worships you, sings to you, can't stop enjoying your name and fame. Take a good look at God's wonders— they'll take your breath away. -Psalm 66:4-5 (MSG)
As the Lord says in the book of Job, let the beauty of creation ‘teach you’ and ‘instruct you’ how to give praise to God.
Just ask the animals, and they will teach you. Ask the birds of the sky, and they will tell you. Speak to the earth, and it will instruct you. Let the fish in the sea speak to you. -Job 12:7-8 (NLT)
My heart as the shepherd of this house is that you will be swept up in the beauty of creation as you take in the artistry of Debbie Witt’s photography that will be displayed for the next eight weeks. As you admire God’s handiwork, you will join with all creation in worshipping our great God. So, stand and stare in wonder that our great God created so many colorful creatures and landscapes. Position your heart in a place of admiration, adoration and praise.
Plan on coming early to church or staying afterward to take in these amazing windows into nature!
* Photos used with permission by Debbie Witt photography.
I look forward to seeing all of you who choose to worship with us in the Dome this Sunday at either 9:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m.
You can also live stream our 11:00 a.m. service on Facebook and YouTube
If you missed last Sunday's Easter message, "Thomas and a Healthy Doubt" (John 20) click here.
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