Tonight was our first art show at the 567. Unfortunately we picked the same night as the Museum of Arts and Science opened a HUGE art exhibit. So our crowd was not great. But for our first show it was good.
The slower crowd gave me some great conversation time with Craig Burkhalter, the artist. Much of Craig's work has reference to spiritual matters, the Bible, and religion. So I got to probe a little and listen a lot. Craig's girlfriend also came by. She wanted to hear all about the church - our history, our start, why we started, what our services were like, our affiliations... She and Craig had already talked about coming to check us out - now they will in the next few weeks.
The conversation with Craig didn't stop with Craig, or his girlfriend. Michael's on Mulberry sent one of their folks over to set up and sell cold beverages. So, from hearing our conversation - he and I began to talk. He stopped going to church several years ago - tired of the fakeness of institutional Christianity. Through a series of topics that included depravity and good works I was able to share the beauty of the gospel - Jesus came because we couldn't do it on our own.
So - an incredible night that most of you missed! The art is good stuff. Seeing the 567 re-set for an art show was cool - lights focused on the art, room to move and take in, and enjoy the creations of an artist. Being able to ask the artist questions was great. But talking with new people about God and Faith, the Bible and beliefs, and sharing the Gospel was beautiful. I could write more, but I will leave it there - God is doing His thing and I'm pumped to be a part of it!
Oh yeah - Crai actually sold a piece tonight! Yet another cool thing.
