You Are The Light Of The World

“To send light into the darkness of men’s hearts – such is the duty of the artist.” ~Schumann

Robert Schumann understood the power of art. The fact that he was a renowned pianist and composer isn’t what qualified him to make that statement. He qualified himself by almost missing his highest calling. In a letter to his mother, he wrote; “My whole life has been a struggle between Poetry and Prose, or call it Music and Law.” You see, He was studying law, and left the study of law for music.

Schumann was qualified to make that statement because he valued art. He believed art could be a powerful influence in the hearts of men for good. He believed it, because he experienced it. He made the decision to study music after experiencing a life-changing encounter with the music of Paganini.

He understood the power of art.

So here’s the question: Do you?

Many of you claim to be artists in one form or another, yet you surrender to self-doubt more than you create. I’m concerned that many of the creators of this generation fail to see the power of their own art. I’m concerned that you don’t see the power of your own art. I’m concerned that you don’t believe in what you create. I’m concerned that you don’t know that your art can “send light into the darkness of men’s hearts…”

“Let me tell you why you are here. You’re here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You’ve lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage. Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand-shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.” ~ Matthew 5:13-16 (The Message)