Rediscover the Creator in Youናሙና

Reflection:

The same Spirit of God that hovered over the waters in Genesis 1 to create everything we can see, taste, touch, and think, is upon you. One of the most impactful lies roaming the earth today is that there are people who aren’t creative, or that this powerful characteristic is constrained only to the arts. You are made in the image of God, and thus you are creative like your Creator.

To create is simply to bring something new into existence, whether that’s a thought, word, picture, project, or even the experience of reading these words. God has designed our creative nature to be a gift that sparks joy and hope. Our brains actually release joy chemicals like dopamine when we have creative thoughts. This is one reason we can feel good when we doodle, solve the math equation, or figure out where a leak is. We, made in the image of God, also have the ability to behold and enjoy the goodness of what we create. While creativity is woven into the being of every person and a powerful indicator of a Creator, we who are hidden in Christ (Colossians 3:3) can experience a supercharging of this gift. Isaiah 61 powerfully declares ways that the love and power of Jesus is empowering us, as His followers, to create.

The first step to growing in this gift, whether you are an expert in your craft or just discovering this truth, is to receive and believe this encouragement. Invite the Holy Spirit today to fill you with love, peace and joy, and to reveal your creativity to you in new ways. Ask Him to direct your steps and words as you take part in creating via your work, the moments you have with your kids or family members, or in your community.

Activation:

Your salvation and expression of faith is not just designed for your moments within a religious community or church. As we will see in multiple verses, there is an invitation to be a part of creating in the world that helps advance the Kingdom of God, and its love, beauty, and transforming goodness. Today, take a few minutes to reflect on the spaces that you have been assigned to create within. Picture your workplace, your school, your home, or your city as a canvas to which you can bring hope, ideas, and love. Celebrate how God helped you already create what is good in these places. Then spend at least a minute thanking God for this gift, and these opportunities.