An Reflection from Elder Stephen Howard

In ancient Greece the people believed that artists, poets, musicians were special people, that they had a special connection with something that was beyond the rest of us. The general belief was that artists had been touched by the muse and that this gave them the ability to see more deeply and more fully. This gift from the gods – or as I would prefer, from God – also carried with it the obligation to show what they saw to others.

I see little difference between the Old Testament prophets and the artist. Samuel, Isaiah, Daniel in speaking gave a voice to God, a voice which taught, which told the people what to do or not to do. Artists, through their special gifts show us a way to see the glory of God’s creation. By the use of color, light, and shadow, they are able to awaken us to the presence of the sublime hand, subtle yet awesome, at work in the world in which we live. As did the prophets, they can show a message of joy as well as a word of warning as to how we should be with the earth and with our fellow creatures upon the earth.

This Earth Day exhibit at Deer Creek Harmony Church is a collection of images of familiar places and things: trees, fields, frogs, turtles, everyday spaces revealed to us as both delicate and powerful. They awaken joy and humility. They awaken a sense of responsibility to protect them.

Elder Stephen Howard, Curator

Sunday Services 11am           Rt 161 at Harmony Church Road     Darlington, Maryland    21034