Creativity and Godwinks | Gayle Pacholl

Sometimes we experience what seems like an amazing coincidence, or perhaps an answer to a prayer.  In his book series, author Squire Rushnell calls this a “godwink.”  Rushnell suggests that a coincidence is actually a “wink” from God, meant as tangible evidence of God’s presence in our lives.  A godwink is intended to give us reassurance that we are heading in the right direction, and offers support for the choices we have made.  (For more details, check out the godwinks website.)

Many of the godwinks I’ve experienced are associated with my love of crafting.  I enjoy creating handcrafted items from recycled materials.  I’m continually on the lookout for new ideas, and hunting for materials at garage sales and thrift stores.  What amazes me is how many times I stumble upon the exact craft item I need right when I need it.  And it happens quite often. 

For example, on Pinterest, I recently found a craft idea for Christmas ornaments made from sand dollars.  I’ve always loved sand dollars because of their Christian symbolism.  On the front is the outline of a poinsettia with the star of Bethehem in the middle.  The five slits represent the wounds of Christ on the cross.  The Easter lily is etched on the back on the shell and if you break it open you will find five doves of peace.  I think the sand dollar is one example of the many little godwinks found in nature. 

I was eager to try this craft, but I needed the sand dollars.  Imagine my excitement last week when I found two packages of sand dollars at a garage sale–enough to make a dozen ornaments!  What are the odds of this happening?  Was it a godwink?  I think so.  Not a cloud-parting miracle.  Just a little wink.  

But is God really interested in my little craft projects?  Yes, I think he is.  As the Master Creator, I think God enjoys watching me use the gift of creativity that he gave me. 

When God formed us as human beings, God infused each of us with a spark of his own creativity, which we express in many different ways–through art, music, writing, photography, cooking and gardening, to name a few.  We tap into our creative ideas every time we clothe ourselves, operate a business, design our homes, and build our community.  God has given us a world filled with colors and shapes and textures to inspire our imagination.  Naturally, God loves to see what we create and how we share it with others!  

Dear Lord, thank you for giving us the gift of creativity. May we use it to share with others the beauty of your world and your boundless love for us.  Thank you for sending us the reassurance that you care about every aspect of our lives, even in the little, ordinary things we do every day. Amen.