Bringing People Together

Creativity as a gift of worship and connection

Jon Reddick 

From as far back as I can remember, creativity has been a part of who I am. As a kid, I spent hours alone in my room painting, drawing, or experimenting with music. I’d grab two tape recorders, layering my voice over itself to create the most rudimentary multitracks. It didn’t matter that the sound was degraded or imperfect—I was drawn to the process of creating something from nothing. 

God uses creativity to reach people in ways that words alone can’t.

Even then, I think God was planting seeds. Creativity wasn’t just about making art; it was a way to process life, to connect with something bigger than myself. I didn’t fully understand it at the time, but those moments were preparing me for the role creativity would play in my worship and my relationship with God.

Creativity as a Reflection of God

One of the most incredible things I’ve learned is that creativity is a reflection of God’s nature. He is the ultimate Creator, and when we create, we’re stepping into that part of His character. It doesn’t matter whether it’s music, painting, or another form of expression—our creativity is an act of worship.

For me, music has always been a bridge between my heart and God. It’s where I feel closest to Him, especially when I’m leading worship. But what I’ve discovered is that the same is true for others. God uses creativity to reach people in ways that words alone can’t. That’s why I believe worship is so much more than singing—it’s about inviting others into a space where they can encounter God. 

The Power of Collaboration

Another thing I’ve learned is how God works through collaboration. Creativity isn’t just an individual journey—it’s something that grows when shared. Some of my most meaningful experiences have come from sitting down with others and combining our ideas, our perspectives, and our stories.

Creativity—tears down walls and brings people together.

One time, I painted a piece without realizing it perfectly captured the heart of a song we’d been working on. My team pointed it out, and I was blown away by how God had woven those moments together without me even realizing it. He does that—He uses each of us as pieces in a bigger picture we can’t always see. 

Overcoming Fear in the Creative Process

But I’d be lying if I said the creative process was always easy. Fear and perfectionism are hurdles I’ve had to face time and again. There have been moments when I stopped painting or writing because I didn’t think I could make it “good enough.” I’d convince myself it wasn’t worth finishing. 

COVID was a turning point for me. During that season, people stopped worrying about perfection and started focusing on connection. Watching worship happen in raw, imperfect ways reminded me that God isn’t looking for flawless art—He’s looking for honest hearts. That realization freed me to let go of the fear that had been holding me back. 

Creativity as a Bridge

One of the most beautiful things about creativity is how it brings people together. I’ve seen it happen over and over in worship. People from different generations, cultures, and backgrounds come together, united in a shared experience. That’s the power of creativity—it creates a space where walls come down and connections are made.

Your creativity matters—it doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.

I’ve experienced this firsthand in leading worship and in creating art. Whether it’s through a song or a painting, God uses creativity to speak to people in ways that transcend words. It’s not about me or my abilities—it’s about God using the gifts He’s given to reach hearts.  

An Invitation to Create

If there’s one thing I’d want to share with anyone who feels stuck creatively, it’s this: your creativity matters. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It doesn’t have to be for a specific purpose. Just create, and let God meet you in the process. He can use your art, your music, or whatever you create to touch lives in ways you might not even realize.

God gave us creativity as a gift—not just for us to enjoy but to share with others. So don’t hold back. Step into that creative space, and trust that God will use it for something beautiful.

 

Jon Reddick, a worship pastor and songwriter with a passion for creating music that speaks of redemption, hope, and unity, grew up in Memphis, Tennesse, where music was woven into his life from the start. His writing reflects a deep desire to bridge divides across racial, cultural, and generational lines, drawing people together under one faith. From leading diverse choirs to penning songs that resonate with congregations worldwide, Reddick’s work invites people to experience God’s healing and connection through worship.

Now focused on his own music, Reddick blends his talents as a songwriter and visual artist to share his faith in creative ways. His debut single, “You Keep Hope Alive,” even features his artwork as its cover. With years of leading worship, touring, and fostering transparency in worship, Reddick sees his role as a conduit to help people reconcile with God and one another. His songs are an invitation to hope, healing, and unity through the power of Christ. https://www.jonreddickmusic.com/

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