Abstract Expressionism - The Caim and beyond....

Abstract expressionism is art in which artists typically applied paint rapidly, and with force in an effort to show feelings and emotions. Their work is characterised by a strong dependence on what appears to be accident and chance, but which is actually highly planned. However, usually there is little or no effort to represent as the spontaneity of the artist's approach to their work is said to draw from and release the creativity from within,. Importantly the expressiveness of painting is sometimes more significant than the painting itself. Continuing such thinkiing as applied to worship as expression is the simplicity to show feeling and emotion as much as be embraced by the same as we firstly listen and experience God's touch apply his comfort, forgiveness, love, etc.

Having planned several weeks ago to take the theme of todays Sunday service as Our Fears... little did I realise what our midweek half hour Caim readings would contribute.(The Caim is a quiet, reflective space, held Wednesdays, morning and evening taking the readings for the day) . Psalm 34 played a part pastorally as well as today for us all.

We started with a scary story... and then explored anxiety/fear...

THEN...
PSALM 34
4GOD met me more than halfway,
he freed me from my anxious fears.

5Look at him; give him your warmest smile.
Never hide your feelings from him.

6When I was desperate, I called out,
and GOD got me out of a tight spot.

7GOD's angel sets up a circle
of protection around us while we pray.

8Open your mouth and taste, open your eyes and see—
how good GOD is.
Blessed are you who run to him. (Peterson, The Message)

We then had 'Do not be afraid..' played and invited folks from this point to come place their YELLOW fear post-its on a rough cross at the front. (representative of their anxious fears). Some people came fter the blessing as they left too. It was a very emotional time of unburdening our anxious fears. We prayed aware of the circle of protection.

May the grace of God,
deeper than our imagination;
the strength of Christ,
stronger than our need;
and the communion of the Holy Spirit,
richer than our togetherness,
guide and sustain us today
and in all our tomorrows. Amen.