Read the sentence a second time and then invite the family to brainstorm what it means. Listen and enjoy the responses. Then ask, "If the Lord's purpose is to bring to pass 'immortality and eternal life' (see Moses 1:39), according to Elder Ballard what part do the arts play in His goal?
Activity: Items Needed:
- Pen or pencil for each person
- Piece of paper for each person
After the family has had an opportunity to express their thoughts, pass out a piece of paper to each person with a pen or pencil. Tell them they have 60 seconds to think of as many different forms of the arts as possible (remind them that "the arts" means more than just painting).
Once time is up, invite members of the family to share their ideas. If you have a white board, it would be fun to write down the many different areas of "the arts" as they are mentioned (this reinforces effort). Your family probably will have come up with categories similar to: dance, sculpture, music, theater, pen and ink drawings, etc.
Application: Let your family know that Elder Ballard also said (explain each sentence as you read it if you have young children):
"Spiritually successful artists have the unique opportunity to present their feelings, opinions, ideas, and perspectives of eternity in visual and sound symbols that are universally understood. Great art touches the soul in unique and uncommon ways. Divinely inspired art speaks in the language of eternity, teaching things to the heart that the eyes and ears can never understand. Aristotle said, 'The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance'" (Ibid., emphasis added).
Ask: What is the purpose of art, from God's eyes? Why then does Satan offer counterfeits? Allow time for sharing.
Explain that generally there are three categories within each body of "art:” sleazy art, neutral art (that which neither destroys nor improves), and uplifting art. If we are spiritual beings working to get back to God's presence, which category best serves our purpose?
Brainstorm this week how to bring in high quality art, whether by finding a beautiful landscape painting or by listening to medieval music sung by pure voices or by reading a classic piece of literature that makes one think deeply about the purpose of life.
Share your testimony that as we follow God's purposes for our lives in all ways, even including mighty art, therein rests true joy. As we remember to bring great art into our lives—as Elder Ballard suggests—we create great hearts and mighty souls within each one of us.
Closing Song: #40 Arise, O Glorious Zion
Closing Prayer: By Invitation.
Refreshments: This "Think Pink" Chocolate Cake provides a canvas of joyful creation in which all can participate (turn it into cupcakes, if you so choose). Or this "Artistic Appetizers" Recipe is a fun approach to celebrate the artist in all of us. Whatever your choice, life can be joyful as we rejoice in the good and uplifting that is all around us!
[ Additional Resources: Elder Ballard's talk on the arts and their spiritual purposes is a must-read and most inspiring. Here is the link. Enjoy!]
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