Vision Navigator

On the heels of this post on validation, and our need to be seen and recognized for who we are, I was reminded of an incredible quote by a new friend on twitter, Jason Mitchener:

“I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free.” - Michelangelo

This is a powerful metaphor for God’s redemptive work, isn’t it? Seeing beyond the exterior, and peering deep into the very heart of our being to see who we were created to be. And then chipping away at the barrier that encases and enslaves us - the time hardened exterior we erect that separates us from our Father/Creator and the life we were meant to live.

The only catch is that carving isn’t very pleasant. And neither is being exposed to the light, when you’ve been safely tucked away in the dark for some time. So do we allow ourselves to be carved? Do we expose ourselves to the light to be reshaped in the image of God?

To do so takes trust. Trust not only in the artist’s skill and ability, but also in his heart and vision for us.

Do you have that kind of trust? Do you find yourself moving towards the light, or maintaining your barriers?

Ran across this short movie called Validation…funny, intriguing, touching, and a great story that illustrates the power of words, and the fundamental human need for recognition and affirmation. If you have 15 minutes or so to invest, it’s definitely worth your time:

It got me thinking about the way I use words - and how I might take advantage of the opportunities I’m given to recognize and call out the beauty and God-given strengths of those around me.

What’s your response to the movie? Have you experienced this sort of validation in your life? What prevents you from being validated, or validating those around you?