The Creative Process

At my DNA level I am a "creative." I am a composer, an arranger, an orchestrator, a worship service programmer, a teacher and a public speaker. As such, I love to create things: music, concerts, groups, events, worship services. I love starting with nothing but an idea and a blank score page or legal pad, and am always fascinated (and truly humbled) at how, over time, that blank space gets filled with ideas, elements, and solutions, and at some point, a finished product emerges, ready to be heard, seen, felt, and experienced. I never cease to be amazed at the process each time it happens.

No where was this more apparent than the process I witnessed (really!) several years ago when completing a choral/orchestral commission for a Dallas Symphony Christmas Concert. I was asked to create a new setting of the timeless classic "Carol of the Bells." Knowing that there were potential copyright issues with certain texts in common use, I set out to create my own set of lyrics, all the while framing the work within Handbell sonorities, energetic string figures, fanfares from the brass section, and a big entrance from the magnificent organ at the Myerson Symphony Center.

I can't say I remember writing the work (a common experience for me). I do remember struggling with the text--doing my best to complete rhymes, chain coherent thoughts together, all the while keep things in control and harmony for both choir and orchestra. In addition, the standard creative concerns presented themselves: how to start the piece, where is the big moment, how long should it be, and most of all, how does it end. I worked through all these parts of the journey, while trying to maintain a healthy view of the big picture. And as often happens, when I finished, I stared at it, and thought, "where did THAT come from?!" I truly do not remember most of the process.

All of this confirms for me that we are not the only active participant in our creative process; as we are created in the image of OUR Creator, we bear His image as creative as well, and it is very apparent to me that His creativy manifests itself through our gifts, talents, and processes, guiding us along. Now I do not hold to the view that "God gave me" such and such a work; I would never blame God for any of my paltry efforts! But I do sense His hand guiding mine as I explore undiscovered vistas, and watch as He unfolds the unknown before my eyes. I can truly say that I am not only a participant, but also an observer, and a grateful one at that.

When you struggle to be creative, I suggest you pause and remember that you're not alone. You don't do this on your own; the Teacher, Friend, Comforter and Companion who created You stands by and lends a hand as you mirror His efforts to "bring something out of nothing." It is His nature, and it is what you were meant to do. Participate, and watch in wonder!