INVITATION
TO BE
CONTEMPLATIVE
Inclusive for everyone Immersed in the creative process, I attempt to be true to who God has created me to be. The creation of my artwork is between God and I and based on Christs teachings. I am not comparing myself with others. It’s not about being right or wrong even though my inner critic attempts to make detrimental judgements to the contrary. Contemplative arts provides a time and space for us all to express ourselves creatively without judgement.
SEEDS OF FAITH
Mark 4:26-3 4
CREATIVE PARABLE GUIDE
How is the Holy Spirit explaining the parable to me directly?
Am I being drawn towards writing my own original parable?
Step 1: Creative Options
Write:
My own parable and illustration -- from your own story, my experiences and learnings in my life..
I choose a parable that I relate to and illustrate - from my own experiences in my life
Other way?
Create:
Collage - find images or symbols of meaning about a parable
Draw – images and symbols of meaning about a parable
Illustrate the parable of the Mustard Seed
Other way?
Step 2: Prayer: Hold a conversation with God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Step 3: Review: In reviewing of my quiet prayer time, I write to find the meaning from what I have experienced during my prayer process while gazing at what I have created.
Step 4: Reflection questions
What symbolic meaning is there in the words and images?
How does this parable relate to my own life experiences?
What do I understand now?
Lynne asks “I wonder what you experienced?”
“Would you like to join me for a Contemplative Arts Companion session, either in person or via Zoom? I’d love to hear from you—please email me or inquire about more information.”
Contemplative Arts Guide — Moving with the Spirit
Begin by becoming still. Breathe slowly and simply gaze at the painting above. There is no need to understand or interpret it. Allow your eyes to wander wherever they are drawn.
Notice the flowing lines. Where do you sense movement? Where do you sense stillness? Imagine these currents as the breath of the Spirit moving through creation—and through you.
Notice one circle, colour, shape or pathway that particularly attracts you. Stay with it for a while. Ask quietly:
Holy Spirit, where are you moving in my life at this time?
Where are you inviting me to flow rather than resist?
What new life might you be bringing forth in me?
Then take your art materials [choose any medium for drawing or painting] and allow your hand to move freely. Begin with a line, circle, colour or mark. Try not to plan the finished image. Let the creating itself become prayer.
When you have finished, sit quietly with what has emerged. You might close with the simple prayer:
“Come, Holy Spirit. Help me to notice your movement within me, around me, and throughout all creation. Give me the freedom to move with you. Amen.”