Years ago, while discussing the importance of environment for the homeless people at a shelter, a social worker here in Tacoma (but not at the Mission) said, “If they don’t care, why should we?” To the contrary, I think an environment of Beauty, Inspiration, Cleanliness, and Orderliness is important to the spiritual development of those who have been living in total chaos on the streets or in their cars. When they come into the Mission I want them to experience “Restful Places” and a sense of beauty around them. That is why we work so hard to create comfortable, clean spaces for the the people we serve. What does beauty do for us? 1. It let’s us know that there is a God. The Bible says that nature itself, beauty, points us towards God. So it in when we care and beautify the buildings of the Tacoma Rescue Mission or any ministry. Some churches and sects over the years took on a plain, austarity approach to beauty in response to the idol worship they saw around them. Often ministries keep it plain for financial reasons, or so they think. But I contend that beauty is no more expensive than austarity. Often it is just a matter of thoughtfulness, patience and work. 2. Beauty creates spaces where we can relax. 3. Beauty inspires us. How many times have you seen a sculpture, piece of art, or photo and been inspired to a more positive emotion or state of mind? It happens all the time. I’m sure there are more reasons. Add onto this list. DC
The beauty expressed in art is an outward human expression of an inherent inward reflection. We are made in God’s image and the beauty around us can remind us that we reflect His glory. When I see beautiful art, a peaceful place, or pristine photo I often begin to ask the “right” questions: Who is this God? and what is He doing? It is just a small glimpse of the God we serve and how good He is!
When the new TRM was built, I was so happy and inspired to see that it was built with care and attention to the beauty, and not just sterile and cold.
I believe caring for and beautifying our houses – or temporary dwellings is a compliment to the architect. When the architect comes back, he doesn’t want to come to see blank walls, he wants to see how you’ve enjoyed his design. This will directly translate to those who come to TRM for respite and relief. The more we realize the Architect’s design for our life, the more we want to enjoy His design. As we enjoy His design for our life, we find that peace, beauty, and inspiration.
David, I apreciate your heart felt thoughts on leading them out of destructive life styles. Intoducing beauty they may have never seen or took the time to ponder. As a teacher they want what you know, as a mentor or example they want to be like you. They take on what is exemplified. Thank you for your encouragemant.
Michael Tallman
Two important reasons to me to create a nice environment for our guests are the following:
1) Do unto others as we would like others to do for us. How do we like to be treated?
2) When we provide the best environment we can for people, we are telling them without words that they are valuable. It is easy for people who are looked down upon by others to start feeling worthless. To some extent, we all start feeling about ourselves what we read in the eyes of others. So giving homeless people our best is one way of affirming that they are of value to us and to God.
Men and women whos lives have been ravaged by chaos and drugs run to their addiction to find peace,relief and enjoyment. With that in mind…it is not a long term solution to simply provide housing, a job, and a few months sobriety. The entire framework through which they see their world must be changed and new priorities established. Simple pleasures are a novelty to them. Finding solace and inspiration through God’s magnificant creation is healing when we learn to appreciate beauty. To be in a well organized lovely surrounding is soothing to our spirit. We learn to exhale the poisen of anxiety when we feel safe,content and completely relaxed. We then learn how to deeply inhale God’s peace and joy…lifting our droopy countenance and energizing our spirit.I hold high esteem for ambiance because I believe God does.Just look around…He put great detail into color, texture, sound, fragrance and lighting. Its a body, mind, soul and spirit thing.I therefore appreciate TRM’s attention to detail. Thank you!
As the body of Christ, we have one chance at a first impression. A drab and shabby environment says, “You are not important”. A professional, well-appointed, well-kept, and beautiful surrounding helps to say, “Welcome to the Kingdom. Jesus loves you. We love you.”
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by David Curry, Jann Sonntag. Jann Sonntag said: Re-post on why the Mission believes in Excellence in Serving the homeless: http://bit.ly/4GhhDu (via @DavidgCurry) [...]