Called to Creativity feat. Joe Melendrez

 

“God is the ultimate creator and we should be like him in our creativity. Look at the gifts you have. Produce the best you can for Jesus.”

If you’re a Catholic creative who suffers from creative block or the soul-crushing belief that “it’s all been done before,” this episode is for you.  How do we discern our creative call, create free from self-doubt, AND use it to help redeem our culture?

First, we can’t waste time with self-doubt when the Gospel needs to be shared.

Second, it’s been freeing to realize that my art isn’t all about me. It’s a service for others. It brings people to God. Your artistry isn’t about ratings or garnering a huge following; it’s about being a channel to God in a way that no one else on Earth can.

My guest today, Joe Melendrez, has been performing as a Catholic rap artist since he was 15. He encountered raised eyebrows from Catholics who associate rap with an immoral culture. He’s such a great example of how to redeem an art form that’s all-too-often used for evil. Currently Joe is one of the most well-known speakers and Catholic performers in the US of A. We also talk about branding, feeding yourself spiritually, and discerning your vocation.

Y'all, the world needs our Spirit-led creativity. You’re not too old, or too young, or too poor, or too anything to start using your gifts right now. I just encourage you to surrender yourself totally to him and to ask him to flow through you. 

Topics discussed:

Collaboration and creating content consistently
Developing a relationship with the Holy Spirit
Articulating your creative mission and forming goals
Branding and knowing the audience you’re serving
Transforming your art into a ministry

Resources:

Fr. Rob Galea Ministry
Joe Melendrez (check out his new album, Chosen)
Scripture Observation Application Prayer (SOAP Method)
Marie Forleo
God Swagg Apparel
Gotta Get it Now Song