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Vincent van Gogh is one of the most influential artists in history. While his life story is one of much tragedy and loss, many are unaware of how much he loathed the Christian church.
Earlier in his life, Vincent was captivated by the gospel message and began to be trained in full-time ministry. While we may not know all of the details, historians have learned that he did not have the talents needed for ministry. But instead of training Vincent for other roles, those responsible for his education sent him away. In short, the Christian church hurt Vincent more than it helped him.
In the years to follow, we see these hurts communicated through his art. Starry Night, for example, reveals a small town in the distance. Lights are seen in the majority of households and buildings, but not in the church. The church is completely dark.
Seemingly, this was Vincent’s way of saying, “I have seen light and beauty, but not where I most expected to see it.”
READING & JOURNALING:
Those you interact with today may be seeking hope and encouragement in the same way Vincent van Gogh was. In what ways is God inviting you to be a light to others?
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, I recognize that we live in a broken world, and that because we live in a broken world there will be pain, suffering, and hurt. Continue to help me to be the kind of person others can turn to for support when they are seeking hope and encouragement. May I reflect the goodness of who You are to them. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
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