Order includes:

• high-res image file formatted for print

• high-res image file formatted for web/projection

• A PDF of the Artist's statements & scripture reference for the visual

• A visio divina Bible Study Guide for you to use this image in a group study session that incorporates the ancient Benedictine spiritual practice of "divine seeing."

Credit Info:

When printing and sharing online, please always include the following credits:
Artist's name | A Sanctified Art LLC | sanctifiedart.org

FROM THE ARTIST:

This quilt square collage shows the ripple effect of joy dancing throughout all creation.

In the nativity story, the birth of Christ is meant to bring universal joy and good news to all people, especially those like the shepherds who might be estranged, undervalued, or marginalized (Luke 2:10). Joy greets the Magi during their long and arduous journey; when the star stops, they know they are close (Matthew 2:10).

In addition to the Christmas story, this piece is also inspired by the rich poetry of praise found throughout many Hebrew scriptures. For those enduring exile, God brings exaltation that multiplies (Isaiah 9:2-3). The psalmist sings praise for the God of the mountains and hills as well as the highest heavens and starry skies (Psalm 148). The prophet Isaiah casts a new vision of people returning home as the trees clap their hands and the mountains and hills sing shouts of praise (Isaiah 55:12-13).

For the focal point of this design, I chose an eight-pointed star, which is symbolic in many cultures and religious traditions. In Judeo-Christian traditions, the number eight symbolizes new beginnings, as seven is the number of completion. The eight points can also represent the four cardinal directions combined with the four elements: fire, air, water, and earth.

For many, an eight-pointed star means harmony and balance. In this image, I wanted the landscape to feel refracted, perhaps like a prism, or even a broken mirror. The land rejoices despite forces that try to break it. The horizon expands into all directions. There is no east or west, north or south—the arms of creation reach into the cosmos. In between stars and moons, fruit trees bear their harvest and clap their hands.

In many ways, this piece is a song of praise as well as a song of resistance. Creation cannot be quieted. If praise is not on your lips this day, do not fear, for we can trust that all of creation is dancing on our behalf.

—Rev. Lisle Gwynn Garrity