Habituation and the Power of Art to Re-ignite Your Heart

Ever noticed how sometimes the most extraordinary parts of our spiritual lives start feeling a bit, well, ordinary? It's like when you've walked the same path so many times, you stop noticing the beauty around you. That's what scientists call mental habituation, a fancy term for getting so used to something that it doesn't excite us anymore. And let me tell you, it can sneak into our spiritual lives more often than we'd like to admit.


Think about it—those moments that once left us in awe, like a heartfelt prayer, a moving worship session, or those life-changing Bible verses, start feeling like just another part of our routine. It's like we're going through the motions, missing out on the spark that used to light up our faith. And before we know it, our spiritual life starts feeling a bit dry, like we're stuck in a loop.


But here’s the good news: we don't have to stay stuck. God's given us some incredible tools to shake things up and see His world and His word with fresh eyes again. Art and beauty are like God's wake-up call to our souls, reminding us of the wonder that's all around us and in His presence.


Art, Beauty & God’s Presence
As an artist, I've seen firsthand how a piece of art can stir something deep inside us, pulling us out of our spiritual slumber and into a moment of awe and wonder. It's like a visual parable, speaking truths into our hearts in ways words sometimes can't. And beauty—oh, beauty is everywhere, in the majesty of a sunset, the intricate details of a flower, or the harmony of a song. These moments of beauty draw us back to the Creator, reminding us of His love and creativity.


And let's not forget the power of simply being in God's presence. It's about slowing down, being still, and knowing He is God. It's in those quiet moments of prayer and reflection that we can break free from the routine and hear His voice in new ways.


And if enjoying art, beauty and God’s presence helps, making art takes it to the next level.


The Power of Making
As anyone who’s ever felt the joy of making something knows, there's something almost magical about the act of creating art - especially when we connect with the Holy Spirit in the process. It's like we get to partner with God in a little bit of His ongoing creation story through our unique creative expression.


I’ve known that power intimately for many years as an artist who creates baskets and sculptural works with natural materials like vines and branches. Walking through the silence and beauty of the forest causes my emotions to awaken, my eyes to be opened and my heart to be reinvigorated.


When we're feeling stuck in a rut, going through the motions without really seeing or feeling much, making art can be a game-changer. And it's not just about the final product, either. It's the process of making that holds the real transformational power.


When we create, we engage with the world in a unique way, paying close attention to details we usually overlook. Ever tried to sketch a flower or capture a sunset in paint? You'll notice shades, shapes, and textures you never saw before, even though they've always been there. This act of careful observation can jolt us out of our everyday habituation, making the familiar world around us come alive again.


An Emotional Connection
But it's not just about seeing more clearly; making art also taps into our emotions and thoughts in a deep way. It can be a form of prayer, a way to express what's on our hearts without words. As we mold clay, stroke a brush, or scribble a pencil, we can pour out our joys, our sorrows, and everything in between to God. It's a conversation, a dance of sorts, where we get to express and explore our inner life - our hopes and dreams, fears and failures - to God in a vulnerable and honest way.


Co-Creating With God
And let's not forget, creating art can also be a powerful reminder of our identity as co-creators with God. We're made in the image of the ultimate Creator, and when we create, we connect with that part of His nature within us. It's a way of remembering who we are and whose we are, especially in times when we might feel lost or disconnected.


Reignite Your Inner Spark
If you’re feeling a bit disconnected from the wonders of your faith or the beauty that surrounds you every day, remember, your own creativity could be a way to reignite that spark. Why not grab a paintbrush, a camera, some clay, a handful of vines, or even just a pen and paper? You don't need to be a "professional" artist; it's all about engaging in the act of creating. This process has a powerful way of opening our eyes, hearts, and minds, drawing us back into a vibrant communion with God and His creation.


And it's not just about making art; it's about immersing yourself in all forms of beauty. Take a leisurely walk in nature, let a piece of music transport you, or get your hands dirty with some personal creative expression. These divine gifts are here to stir our wonder and rekindle our passion for the Creator who designed us for a life bursting with color and joy.


Let's remember, our walk with God is supposed to be a thrilling journey, brimming with awe and discoveries at every turn. So, let's break free from the mundane routine, open our hearts to the beauty that's all around us, and dive back into the grand adventure of faith. Here's to rediscovering that divine spark and infusing our lives with vibrant, full-spectrum color!