Impressionist Faith

Indistinct images. Concepts without details. Light. Little darkness. This characterizes Impressionism.

"Characteristics of Impressionist painting include visible brushstrokes, open composition, emphasis on light in its changing qualities (often accentuating the effects of the passage of time), ordinary subject matter, the inclusion of movement as a crucial element of human perception and experience, and unusual visual angles."

As it is with Impressionist art, so it is with our Christian walk. Experiencing our faith is often a blur. We are not sure of what the future holds, but we are sure our lives are in God's hands so the uncertainties are more bearable. Yes, we have some details, but many of the answers to the questions we ask are left unknown. We have the big picture that God has given us.

In Impressionist art, light is primary and there is little to no darkness. Our experience of darkness in life is nothing compared to the light of Christ. As the light shines darkness is dispelled.

There is a form of movement in the art of the Impressionist. So it is with our faith and our calling. A call to move forward, not looking back, and running the race with endurance.

The primary subject matter of impressionist art is very ordinary. And so God became one of us and has chosen to trust treasure of the Gospel in jars of clay. We are fragile, broken, and ordinary, yet God has entrusted the Gospel message to us.

Next installment: Robert Frank Faith.