The Art of Friendship Mennonite Church
Unexpected Acts of God: An Original Art Series by Jessica Stock
Each week during Advent we will reveal a new piece in a 5 piece series representing the way God moves in power and grace in our lives often without us realizing or recognizing that work. God reveals himself to us in ways that we do not expect because we are not keeping watch or because we think we already know how God works. Two thousand years ago the Jews were looking for a long awaited Messiah, but few if any were expecting that the Christ would come, not as a victorious warrior wrapped in overpowering might and fame among the nations, but rather in the form of a defenseless baby born into poverty. So began the life of our Messiah, a life dedicated to bringing peace and wholeness to the poor and rejected, a life of rejecting power, might and privilege, even when it meant the most shameful form of death on a cross of sinners and convicts. May our lives be dedicated to this kind of peace in the face of violence and aggression, to this kind of passion for the poor, especially when they don’t deserve it, to this kind of compassion for the most rejected around us. May our lives be as surprising as a Messiah born in a barn, and welcomed by scruffy shepherds.
Family Art: Christmas Banners
In 2010 four families were asked to come up with a banner design representing four names of God. These banners have come to mean much more to us than individual pieces of art. The family participation in each piece speaks deeply to our belief in community, and that God is calling each of us to join His spiritual family.
Supporting Ligaments: by Kevin Kanagy
The Apostle Paul describes the church as a body of Christ that is held together by supporting ligaments which builds itself up in love. This piece of art using letters and wire brings to mind the church of the New Testament with each part connected to the other.