The Garlands have always appreciated great art. Cindy volunteers as a docent at the Dayton Art Institute. Joe is a family practitioner, and he was the one who sparked the initial idea for a Bible study using Christian-themed art.
“We’ve had the chance to visit many art museums in this country and in Europe. The artwork moves us and inspires us,” Cindy said. “We wanted to share that love of art with others, but do so through the eyes of our Christian faith.”
Before having a publisher, the Garlands wrote “God’s Word on Canvas” and Cindy used it for a six-week summer Bible study that drew 40 participants, ages 9-91. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and ended with a trip to DAI. The Garlands decided to try to get the book published, and they were eventually introduced to Eichenberger, who loved the idea.
“Jim is an amazing, godly man and working together was such a neat experience for me,” said Cindy. “The end result was quite a bit different from what was proposed, but we really liked it.”
The changes included only using classic works of art, as Garland had included Norman Rockwell in the original text, and expanding to three studies instead of just one.
These three Bible studies examine great works of religious art, the scriptural inspiration behind each and how the prevailing themes can be applied to modern-day morality. Vincent van Gogh’s “Still Life With Bible” includes a small novella, “The Joy of Living,” by Emile Zola. Debates have continued about the meaning behind this painting, but this passage from one of van Gogh’s personal letters serves as a glimpse into his spiritual life:
“Christ alone has been the only one of the philosophers, magi etc. to have stamped eternal life, the infinity of time, the nullity of death, the necessity and sense of serenity and dedication, as the most important certainty. He lived serenely, as an artist greater than all other artists ... ”
“Try to understand the essence of what the great artists, the serious masters, are saying in their masterpieces, [and] you will recognize God in this.”
And that is exactly what the three-book series attempts to do, see Christianity “Through Artists’ Eyes” in “an exploration of Bible-inspired art.” Each classic work is examined along with appropriate Bible verses and accompanying theme.
The books incorporate games, group activities, intriguing questions and symbolism in the artwork so the study participants can gain personal insights into their spiritual life.
Roger Hendricks is senior pastor of Southwest Church in Springboro where the Garlands serve as small group volunteers. He has some insights about small-group Bible studies and why these benefits are important.
“Small groups provide a venue for Christians to discuss their practical experiences of sharing their faith with others. It is also a safe environment to receive helpful feedback from more experienced or mature believers,” Hendricks said. “Since so many people struggle with loneliness, doubts and insecurities, small groups can be a wonderful resource to bolster ones confidence through the friendships developed in the context of love, acceptance and confidentiality. We continually remind people that ‘what is shared in small groups stays in small groups.’ ”
Contact contributing writer Pamela Dillon at pamdillon@woh.rr.com.
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