In The End of Christianity: Finding a Good God in an Evil World, William A. Dembski writes: “Creation is the highest act of giving. In creation, a creator—whether divine, human or otherwise—gives oneself unreservedly in self-revelation” (98-99). A bit later he adds, “The impulse to create and give oneself in self-revelation need not be grand; it can be quite humble” (99).
The observation of almost any child reveals the natural creativity of the human being. Creativity reflects the image of God present in every human at conception. Creation is both an act of self-revelation and of self-giving. What we create, whether it is a poem, a painting, an essay, or a piece of woodwork, reveals a great deal about its maker. And, while someone trapped in narcissism may create for their own pleasure, healthy people create things to be shared with others.
I have observed this in both of my grandchildren from the first time they could put blocks together or scribble on a piece of paper. A recent example will help to illustrate.
One Saturday evening, we shared dinner at our home with four college students who were attending a Navigator’s conference in town. Six-year-old Haley was visiting us that evening and made it a point to greet each student and introduce herself. As we all gathered in our living room to talk, we soon got around to what God was doing in our lives. Haley took it all in, occasionally adding a comment from her perspective. After a bit, Haley left the room. She returned in a few minutes with four hand-drawn pictures, each with a heart and the words “God Loves You… Haley.” Proudly she presented these gifts to each of our guests.
In making these simple gifts, Haley shared her love with her new friends. Haley also revealed her own sense of God’s love for her and for others in her drawings. A simple, humble gesture, but one that confirms the point Dembski was making.
