We become what we behold. The images, stories, places, and heroes we pay attention to shape who we are and what we value. So how do we make sure we’re becoming the people we want to become?
Lanta Davis explores this in her book Becoming by Beholding: The Power of Imagination in Spiritual Formation. She is Professor of Humanities and Literature at Indiana Wesleyan University, and I’m delighted to have her join me to discuss her book and explore imaginative discipleship with me.
We dive into the historical roots of Christian imagination from icons to cathedrals to medieval bestiaries, and what they can teach us today.
Lanta Davis’ website: https://www.lantadavis.com
Buy Becoming by Beholding: Eden.co.uk, Baker Academic, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com
Follow Imaginative Discipleship
Timings
00:00 Intro
00:40 Becoming by Beholding
03:31 Why is the imagination important?
09:51 Icons and Seeing Jesus
17:16 Medieval Bestiaries and Wonder
20:45 Sacramental Imagination
24:19 Form Matters: Worship and Space
31:30 Dante and the Virtues
35:11 Modern Authors and Green Shoots
39:48 Contemplating Death
46:11 Practical Practices
If ‘beholding is becoming’, what are you giving your attention to that’s shaping you? What has helped you in your spiritual formation?
