I often wonder whether my crafting is worth it. I know it’s worth it to me personally as far as the sanity it provides me as well as the sense of accomplishment, the feeling of creativity, not to mention sometimes saving money (especially in the home decorating end). But is it worth the space it takes up in our home, the time I invest into it, and what about the recipients? Would I have been better off purchasing something? Maybe I’m just an insecure crafter, maybe this is normal. I don’t know. Every now and then I get an outside glimpse of appreciation that keeps me going.
A few nights ago while eating dinner Little Miss Sunshine suddenly looked at me and asked, “Do you have a book like I do?” Considering we had not been talking about books I had no idea what she was referring to and asked for clarification. “Do you have a book like I do from when I was a baby?” Aha! “Are you asking if I have a scrapbook of pictures from when I was a baby?” Her eyes lit up “Yeah!!!” Now, Mom, don’t feel bad. People didn’t scrapbook back then like they do now, and I’m sure life was a little simpler and motherhood had a little less pressure because of that! 🙂 I looked at her and said, “No, honey, I don’t have a book like you do (actually 2 books), but I do have some pictures I can show you.” That seemed to satisfy her. And it made my day!
It DOES matter! By our crafts, we give glory to God. When I see Vicki or someone else wearing one of my jewelry pieces, I remember when I made it, and what went into it, and how far God has brought me. So, in one respect, the pieces I make are stones – reminders of where I’ve been and how God led me there.
Exercising our creativity reflects Imagio Dei – it shows our family resemblance to our Creator Daddy. 😀
So, create away, my friend! And in so doing, reflect His image.
Sorry for not scrapbooking your life, sweetheart but I do have all the pictures and I can add some commentary for what was happening in each one (I think). You come from a long line of crafty people. Your Dad and Grandpa’s who loved to work with wood and your Dad has added leather as well. Have you read lately Exodus 35 & 36? Start with chapter 35:30. There God told Moses about the men he had chosen to build the tabernacle and how he had given them great wisdom, intelligence and skill in all kinds of crafts. We may not be building a tabernacle but we are using our gifts and abilities to please God. I loved the gift you made me for Christmas it is special because you had made it. Much better than any gift you could have boughten. So keep crafting!!!
Oooh, such great thoughts from both of you! I’ll check out those verses, and I think I’ll be waxing eloquent on this topic a little more. Hmmm….so much to ponder! Thank you!