I truly hope beyond the scene and beyond the painful scrutiny that defines their lives, many of our General Authorities take time to paint a picture, compose a sonata or act in a play. Those who do will surely be more sympathetic to the struggle and passions of artists within the church. The purpose of the artist in God's great plan may surely be to speak in the mystic language of feeling, but the purpose of art in the lives of God's children is far more reaching and personal. Only those who have experienced the remarkable enlightenment of creativity can appreciate the value of art to the artist. Whatever the relationship between God Purpose and the truly gifted artists of the church and world, the church should encourage art and artistic expression as an important part of perfecting the saints.
Few things bring greater joy.
Each of us must use our tools, our gifts and opportunities to triumph in the contest of mortality. Immortality is a gracious gift. Eternal life may demand that we discover God' purpose for the curious artistic passions he has given us. Whether it is given us to declare the gospel in quiet, singular ways, or proclaim that Christ is Savior with the power of universal symbols, it may be the same to God's purposes. But to the extent He has commissioned those us who bear his Priesthood with the burden of creative passions, we must strive to understand our role in the shadow of His purpose.