As a Christian, I am convinced that God-chasers have within them the potential to be the best craftsmen in the world. That conviction comes from the craftsmen appointed in the Sinai wilderness according to Exodus 31:2-6. These men fled the wonders of Egypt, the most powerful empire of their time to run after God through the wilderness to a promise they could not see. Undaunted by uncertainty, they proved their faith by the manner in which they operated within their crafts.

"See, I have chosen Bezalel ben Uri, ben Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts, to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of craftsmanship.

Moreover, I have appointed Oholiab ben Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, to help him. Also I have given skill to all the craftsmen to make everything I have commanded you.”

 

These "Spirit-filled" men crafted the most amazing works in the desert, molding bronze items in the sands of the desert, weaving cloth for the Tabernacle, dying cloth from the juices of snails gathered perhaps in their journey across the floor of the Red Sea, crafting gold and silver accessories for the tabernacle, skinning and tanning animal skins for the covering of the beautifully crafted Ark of the Covenant.

Having lived in Jerusalem for over 20 years, it just seemed right that Israel’s most prestigious School of Fine Arts is named after Bezalel. The Bezalel School of Fine Art is situated in Jerusalem. I have been influenced, and inspired by that school and graduates of that school for over two decades.

My work is done with that God-gift in the forefront of my mind – Spirit-filled and God-breathed creativity is on the rise and will fill the earth with beauty.

--Ron Cantrell