The room is pleasantly warm, the fire crackling in the fireplace as the snow falls softly outside. We sit together on the couch, each of us lost in our own thoughts as we reflect on the past season. We remember the highs and the lows, the joys and sorrows. We talk about the goals we've achieved and the plans we've made, and we share our hopes and dreams for the future. As the night wears on, we feel a sense of peace and contentment wash over us. We're grateful for the time that has passed, and we're ready to embrace what comes next with open arms.
The beginning of a new season is a time for reflection and renewal. As we look back on the past, we can't help but feel grateful for the many gifts and experiences we've shared. We remember the moments of joy and laughter, the people who have enriched our lives, and the goals we've accomplished.
At the same time, we can't help but notice the things that didn't go as planned. The missed opportunities, the moments of doubt and fear, and the things we wish we could have done differently all capture our attention. In retrospect, it could have gone better. But it didn’t.
Beginnings and ends abound in the Bible. We look to the story of how God created the world in Genesis 1 & 2. The scene is one of chaos and confusion. This moment, this before, is full of potential and possibility. The earth is still formless and empty, the darkness covering the surface of the deep. But then, God speaks, and light fills the void. God separates the light from the darkness and names the light "day" and the darkness "night." God continues to create, forming the land and the sea, the plants and the animals. And finally, God creates humans in God’s own image. The humans are filled with wonder and awe as they look upon the world God has made for them. They are grateful for the gifts of life and creativity that God has given them, and they are eager to explore the world and all that it has to offer. It was good.
This act of creation was an expression of God's creativity, and it gave meaning and purpose to the world that God had made. As we reflect on the past season of our lives and enter a new one, we can find inspiration in this story. Made in God’s image, we carry a spark of that same spirit of creativity. By tapping into our creativity, we can make sense of the past. And in doing so, we can be content in the present and look ahead to the future with excitement and anticipation.
In taking time to pause during this time of transition, we can partner with God in a future filled with wonder. Creativity is an important aspect of this process, as it allows us to tap into our imagination and explore new ideas. This is setting goals, making plans, or simply finding joy today. Making space for this process can make the most of the path ahead.
There is no doubt that creativity is deeply linked to the life of faith. Faith is a powerful creative force. It gives us the courage to pursue our dreams and the strength to overcome obstacles. It is the spark that ignites our creativity and fuels our enthusiasm. Faith is what allows us to turn our ideas into reality. By connecting with these qualities, we can be inspired and motivated by something greater than ourselves. This can be especially important when we are feeling stuck or uninspired, as faith can bring to light new possibilities we haven't seen before.
Consider the following ideas to embrace creativity and faith in the season that lies ahead of you:
- Take some time to yourself to disconnect from the outside world and connect with your inner self.
- Find a quiet, peaceful space where you can relax and focus on your thoughts and feelings.
- Remember to be patient and kind with yourself during this process, and allow yourself the time and space to explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
Words: Tyler Zak
Images: Anne Nygard, Alexander Sinn, and Cecilie Johnsen
