Work of Art

I recently visited the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C. I am always fascinated by the way someone takes items destined for the garbage bin (i.e., bottle caps, cardboard, tin foil, chicken wire) and turns them into a work of art. Amazing!

Also on display were the paintings of Grandma Moses, known for her American folk art. She started painting in her late 70s. Before Grandma Moses died at the age of 101, she produced more than 1500 paintings, capturing the simple beauty and nostalgia of rural life.

So where am I going with all of this? Works of art help me to see value in things I take for granted, and ordinary circumstances can hold the seeds of creativity and hope. What’s more, it’s never too late to express and share our inspirations through words or deeds with one another.

A Form of Expression

Consider this: Art is a form of expression arising from talent given to us by God and from our own effort. “To the extent that it is inspired by truth and love of beings, art bears a certain likeness to God’s activity in what he has created” [CCC 2501]. Therefore, how do we express ourselves each day? How do we use our God-given gifts and creativity to bring beauty into the world?

Let’s value every bit of our lives and not waste it. In other words, make the most of every opportunity—big or small—to serve one another. In this way, we honor our Creator and positively impact those nearby. “For we are his handiwork, created in Christ Jesus for the good works that God has prepared in advance, that we should live in them” [Ephesians 2:10].

Therefore, we can be like artists who derive meaning through unexpected materials. Each of us can discover purpose within our everyday experiences and express that purpose by the way we treat one another. Doing so, we contribute to a greater work of faith, hope and love.

Live in Good Works

Recognizing ourselves as God’s handiwork, we are invited to see our lives as ongoing works of art. Each day presents new chances to foster kindness, inspiration, and service—encouraging a friend, making someone smile, or simply doing our best in small tasks. By embracing our role in this greater masterpiece, we find deeper meaning and fulfillment in the ways we live out our faith, making our lives a testament to the beauty and purpose—the hope and love of God and neighbor—for which we were created.

Granted, our achievements might never be publicly displayed in a gallery, or may just go unnoticed. However, each act, no matter how ordinary, can reflect the goodness Our Lord instilled in us. Therefore, when we pause to appreciate the unique gifts within ourselves and in others, may we become inspired and more intentional in shaping our lives, our communities, our world with peace, gentleness, and compassion.

God only knows what will come in the New Year. Truly, let us cherish opportunities to uplift and support one another. Even the smallest acts of kindness reveal God’s loving presence. Let it be so!