Maturing Perspective
In 1966 a retrospective of Picasso’s paintings was exhibited in Cannes, France. Hundreds of his works, from the first he did as an adolescent beginner to the latest of the master, who was then eighty-five years old, graced the walls of the gallery.
The old man himself roamed about, enjoying the show more than anyone. One report told of a woman who stopped him and said, “I don’t understand. Over there, the beginning pictures—so mature, serious and solemn—then the later ones, so different, so irrepressible. It almost seems as though the dates should be reversed. How do you explain it?”
“Easily” replied Picasso, eyes sparkling. “It takes a long time to become young.”
—Maxie Dunnam
Alive in Christ
A Christian’s maturing perspective yields a deepening understanding of faith, marked by a growing ability to apply biblical principles to daily life, a greater passion for and focus on serving others, increased discernment between right and wrong, and a more profound realization of God’s love and grace, all while acknowledging their own limitations and dependence on God for continued growth. Essentially, it’s moving beyond a basic understanding of Christianity towards a more mature and integrated faith journey. In the story above, the artist recognizes that keen attention to detail characterized the beginnings of his artistic journey, while freedom characterized the latter stages. Likewise, a maturing Christian faith brings more liberty to love abundantly, serve sacrificially, give generously, and to live more attentively to what really matters. May ours be the way of maturity in Christ! —DH
—David Hoskins, Founder & Care Guide, Sanctuary Clinics