Every generation needs an agent who can translate the truth of the Kingdom to modern culture. Last weekend I attended a gathering of about 15 artists presented with exactly that task.

Via Affirmativa, "The Way of Affirmation", exists to serve those who are Revealing God and His ways through the making of art (as quoted from their website). The gathering brings artists together to ask the questions about their trade that everyone needs to ask themselves:

• What is the meaning of my work in light of the Kingdom of God?
• What is my responsibility as an artist (or as a manager, engineer, administrative staffer, etc.)?
• What does it mean to have excellence in my work?

My biggest takeaway came from an interview with writer, director, and actor D. David Morin on the idea of excellence in the arts. He charged the entire group with the responsibility to take their craft seriously and to undergo the proper education that comes with their discipline. A "call from God" to pursue an art form (or enter an industry) does not necessarily give us the right to forgo proper training.

Head over to viaaffirmativa.com to learn more about them. If you have time, listen to Gary Bradley's excellent talk entitled The Value of the Work of our Hands from their gathering in 2007.