Useful vs Usedful

Today’s artists in the church face a dilemma they might not know how to verbalize. But they definitively feel it.

I call it the the Useful vs Usedful theory.

Being useful is to be relied upon for your artistic wisdom and insight to bless others in a way you know will be meaningful. Summoned upon or not, you have a vision to see a gap somewhere and intuitively know how to fill it. Being artistic means you have an imaginative frame that allows you to dream some and innovate. It might not be safe. And it might not even work out. But the process is part of the fun and joy of it. You at least moved the needle further to closing the gap. You are useful.

To be usedful is to merely have utilitarian function. The artwork isn't just a tool. You are. Being usedful it to be a tool for someone else’s vision. Your given a paintbrush, but someone removed your eyeballs to start the painting. You’re a singer with no voice. Like a puppy on a leash of her master, you bow to someone else’s heart.

When you’re useful, your wisdom is leaned upon. You are treated like a human.

When you’re usedful, your utility is hired. Your heart is in a cage. Your work is a container for another’s message.

Useful artists are co-laborers. They’re partners.

Usedful artists are mops, brooms, or new chairs. They’re machines.