Praying through Creativity: Creating Clothing

August 13, 2017 ~ Prev | Intro | Next

During August we are focusing on how creativity can enhance our prayer life.

This week’s scripture gives us the story of Joseph and the special coat that his father made for him. Jacob showed his love for Joseph in how he clothed him. Clothing continues to play an important role in Joseph’s story, often showing change in status. Clothing is a significant way that all of us express our creativity. This week, take some time to appreciate those creative choices and how they connect us to the good news of God’s care for us.

Sewing is one form of clothing creativity. While fewer people these days make their own clothes, sewing can be a powerful outlet for creativity. Knitting and crocheting have resurged in popularity. If you create through sewing or needlework, use this week to pray through your hands.

Even if you don’t make your own clothes, we all choose what to wear. We make different choices for different contexts and activities. Clothing is an expression of our identity and personality. Clothing can create boundaries—through both inclusion and exclusion. Clothing can indicate our attitudes toward ourselves and others. As you select you outfits this week, think about your choices. What do they say about your understanding of yourself, your relationship to society, your relationship to God? Use your choices as a way to pray.

After Adam and Eve were expelled from Eden, God gave them clothing as a sign of reconciliation. While they were no longer in the state of paradise, God was helping them in their new challenges. Give thanks for the gift of clothing, which is one of the means through which God sustains us.