Perspective -- from July 2007

It is amazing to discover how we see things in fresh ways when we move to even a slightly different perspective. You might recall the visual exercise we played with on Trinity Sunday in 2007. Consider the geometric figure of a cube. A cube is comprised of 6 squares joined in a three dimensional fashion, right? And squares are comprised of four lines of equal length... and lines are created by connecting two points (taken even further... the connecting lines are nothing other than a series of points.



So you are looking at the cube... and it is a matter of your focus or the intention (choice) of your mind as to whether you are looking most closely at a square, a line or a point, or the cube as a "whole" comprised of many parts. Also, as you look at various squares, look at what happens when you gaze at the line at the bottom right of the cube ... or at the space above the top line (upper left) of the cube. Did you see the cube "flip"?

Most people are facinated by what the mind can see with the help of skilled artistry.

Julian Beevers can transform ordinary sidewalk pavement so that we "see" the impossible. That's right...he is posed next to a drawing made on concrete!

We can be led to landscapes without taking a trip. We can experience an emotion without hearing or speaking a word. In some cases, when we simply look at things with a different perspective we see humor and can laugh at a paradox or subtle twist where everything previously seemed static. In some cases fresh possibilities appear, and horizons of hope, rather than rigid and immovable barriers.

As you pray about any situation you are experiencing, you begin to allow God's graceful artistry to reveal aspects and perspectives that might escape your limited vision. The feelings, hopes, fears and intentions you have as you move toward an event or a relationship determine much of what you see. What happens when you hold the situation before God and allow it to be altered from your perspective to that which God might desire and accomplish?

Something insignificant or plain may be seen as precious and extraordinary.

Something that might instill a feeling of loss or pain may be a source of God's lavish concern and care.

What you thought was crucial or of paramount value may be seen as something self indulgent and therefore expendable....perhaps to be given to somebody else. In this regard, don't limit your thoughts to material things...what about time or attention?

Our life's path often seems as defined and intact as the brick and concrete upon which Julian Beever draws. Situations may seem set in stone. Some activities and relationships have been a part of life for so many years that we don't even look at them anymore as we encounter them. Guard against looking at your life solely from YOUR perspective. Remember to allow the divine artist to transform your gaze.

As amazing as Mr. Beever's art is, it pales in comparison to what God can do with the pavement of your life!