Michelangelo is widely recognized as a genius of Renaissance art. His sculptures of ‘La Pieta’, ‘David’ and his ceiling and wall paintings in the Sistine Chapel in Rome are among the most famous masterpieces in the world.
And yet this amazing artist is quoted as once having modestly said ‘I’m still learning.’
How encouraging for the rest of us, when someone with such obvious, massive talent admits their sense of human limitation. If Michelangelo could still learn and improve then so can we!
It reminds me of a New Testament passage written by renowned Apostle and church planter Paul.
No one in the 1st century expended more passion and energy to spread the Gospel and nurture new believers than Paul. Around half of the New Testament (13 out of 27 books) came from his inspired pen. His commitment, personal holiness and willingness to self-sacrifice were an inspiration to thousands during his lifetime.
This rather awe-inspiring leader writes in his letter to the Philippians chapter 3 that he wants above all else to know Jesus Christ and become more like Him, but then humbly adds:
‘Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.’
The great Apostle Paul was ‘still learning’!
It’s not an excuse for sloppy work or moral compromise, but it is comforting to know it’s ok to be human. The Lord loves us deeply despite our limitations and mistakes, and teaches us patiently.
But like Paul and Michelangelo, we need to remain humble and willing to learn!
Think about it as you listen to this lovely song by Eilidh Patterson.
(wordsurfers.com website is two years old this month. As a celebration a new feature has been added containing some prayers. More info about Eilidh and her music is available on eilidhpatterson.com)
And yet this amazing artist is quoted as once having modestly said ‘I’m still learning.’
How encouraging for the rest of us, when someone with such obvious, massive talent admits their sense of human limitation. If Michelangelo could still learn and improve then so can we!
It reminds me of a New Testament passage written by renowned Apostle and church planter Paul.
No one in the 1st century expended more passion and energy to spread the Gospel and nurture new believers than Paul. Around half of the New Testament (13 out of 27 books) came from his inspired pen. His commitment, personal holiness and willingness to self-sacrifice were an inspiration to thousands during his lifetime.
This rather awe-inspiring leader writes in his letter to the Philippians chapter 3 that he wants above all else to know Jesus Christ and become more like Him, but then humbly adds:
‘Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.’
The great Apostle Paul was ‘still learning’!
It’s not an excuse for sloppy work or moral compromise, but it is comforting to know it’s ok to be human. The Lord loves us deeply despite our limitations and mistakes, and teaches us patiently.
But like Paul and Michelangelo, we need to remain humble and willing to learn!
Think about it as you listen to this lovely song by Eilidh Patterson.
(wordsurfers.com website is two years old this month. As a celebration a new feature has been added containing some prayers. More info about Eilidh and her music is available on eilidhpatterson.com)
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