Bill Walsh (not the former 49ers football coach) has just posted his last of “9 Reasons I’m a Photographer” at the Desiring God blog. I have been excitedly waiting for him to post all 9 before I pointed you to them. For each reason he gives a clickable explanation that further illuminates what he has to say, along with supporting writings. Here is his introduction and 9 Reasons:
Here are the truths I am pursuing a deeper understanding of in order to establish a firm foundation for why and how I engage in the art of photography for the glory of God. I think they can also serve as a defense for any Christian’s artistic endeavors.
- Creation is a gift from God (and by creation, I mean all that God has made, not just mountains, birds, and trees). It is meant to display and communicate his glory.
- God hides himself in creation. Unbelievers seldom see him in it, but believers are given eyes to see, so they can glorify God through it.
- In order to glimpse of the glory of God in creation, we actually have to engage with it.
- All art has one source: God’s universe. We create nothing, but only imitate the creator.
- Cultural and artistic expressions are gifts from God which we should not neglect.
- Culture that glorifies God is a foretaste of what we will experience in the new heavens and new earth.
- Christians should avoid quickly judging cultural expression as sacred or secular. God also reveals himself through his common grace.
- Christian cultural expression should not solely focus on the beautiful and the romantic, but should include the flawed.
- The Gospel of Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of fusing heaven and earth, and serves as the ultimate source of inspiration for those engaged in artistic pursuits.
His reasons I believe serve anyone who is involved in the arts. Below is just one of his amazing photographs that he includes in this series, a photo of Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona.
I Commend Joy! 