Tessellate. I woke up to that word running through my thoughts. Really? Tessellate? Images of M.C. Escher’s work floated through my consciousness (or subconsciousness) as I pondered the meaning of the word. “What are You trying to say to me Lord?” So, before I began my daily journal entry, I went to the dictionary. No help. Next step: an internet search. The dots began to connect.
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” Romans 12:2 A verse I had read just the day before.
Escher’s Sky and Water image is a perfect visual representation of this passage. As fish, we swim in the waters of conformity when we
- accept the notion of being a starving artist
- walk burdened by our past
- agree with the notion that art isn’t important in the kingdom of God
- identify ourselves with any notion of unworthiness or shame
We renew our mind and mindsets as we wash our minds in the living waters of Jesus’ words (John 4). As we embrace His teaching on abundance (John 10). As we recognize our significance to the One who created us (Psalm 139). As we appropriate Christ’s victory over sin, death, and the power of the devil (John 16).
As we engage in the process of renewal:
- We become thriving artists
- We overcome and heal from past wounds
- We center ourselves and our identity on who we are in Christ
- We live knowing we are loved unconditionally by Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
We are transformed. Then, as we worship the One who is the source of renewal we stretch our wings and fly.
“Bless the Lord, O my soul, And all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits; Who pardons all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases; Who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; Who satisfies your years with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle.” Psalm 103: 1-5
Rise up Mighty Warriors of the Kingdom! Worship! Be renewed! Be transformed from fish to fowl. Take flight!
You were created to fly!