POD 047 | How Beholding Beauty Transforms Our Faith and Communities

Welcome to another enlightening episode of theFormed.life podcast, where we delve into the profound intersection of beauty and faith. Today, our hosts Paul Brandes and Bill Gorman are joined by Dr. Jeff Hoffmeyer and guest host Gabe Coyle, as they navigate the compelling conversation around how beauty manifests in Christianity. They explore the role beauty plays in reflecting God's character, how it influences our everyday lives, and how embracing beauty can deepen our faith experience. From appreciating the grandeur of creation to understanding the beauty in art, relationships, and even the crucifixion, this discussion invites us to see God’s work in the unexpected. Whether you're an artist or just someone looking to find awe and wonder in the world, this episode will inspire you to recognize and integrate beauty into your spiritual journey. Join us as we dive deep into the transformative power of beauty and its ability to connect us with the divine.
Bio
Jeff Hoffmeyer is the Vice President of Advancement at the Denver Institute for Faith & Work. Prior to this role, Jeff served for 15 years as a pastor in various churches, including as Senior Pastor at La Cañada Presbyterian Church in Los Angeles and in interim and teaching pastor roles in Boulder and Fort Collins, Colorado, and Sacramento, California. He holds a Ph.D. in Theology from the Graduate Theological Union and a Master of Divinity from San Francisco Theological Seminary. He also has a bachelor's degree in English from the University of Colorado. Jeff's experience includes ministry, teaching, and leadership, with a focus on spiritual formation and discipleship. He also has experience in fundraising and development from his time in pastoral roles. 1 

Quotes
God who became human, lived a human life, and then loved us to the end, even death on a cross — that event in history is beautiful, and redefines for us what beauty is. - Jeff Hoffmeyer

3 Main Takeaways
Beauty and Faith Intersect: The episode explores how beauty and faith intersect in the Christian life, emphasizing that beauty can play a powerful role in deepening our understanding of God's goodness and drawing us closer to Him. Jeff Hoffmeyer highlights that beauty, often experienced through creation, art, and relationships, reflects the character of God and is an integral part of Christian theology.
Community of the Beautiful: The discussion delves into the concept of the church as a "community of the beautiful." This refers to a community that beholds Jesus Christ and is transformed by Him. The speakers emphasize that we become what or whom we behold, and as a church community centered around Jesus, believers are called to reflect His beauty and love to the world.
Beauty in Everyday Vocation: The episode highlights the importance of recognizing beauty in everyday work and vocation. It suggests that beauty can be found in the intricacies of our daily tasks and how faith and work are interconnected. By seeing our vocations as avenues to serve God and others, and by being sensitive to the cries for mercy around us, we can embody the beauty of God's kingdom in our work and communities.
Resources 

Books
Art and Faith - Makoto Fujimura
Culture Care - Makoto Fujimura
Every Good Endeavor - Tim Keller
The Glory of the Lord - Hans Urs von Balthasar
Essay: "The State of Culture 2024" by Ken Goya
Grunewald's Crucifixion Painting – Matthias Grünewald (Referenced for visual art on theological themes)
Teach Us to Pray Podcast – Jeff Hoffmeyer
Faith and Work Podcast – Denver Institute for Faith and Work
Timestamps:
00:00 Beauty's Role in Faith Exploration
06:22 "Becoming What We Behold"
09:51 God's Glory: Christ Crucified
13:32 Artists Illuminate Faith and Attention
14:48 "Art's Place in Modern Culture"
17:59 "Faith, Work, and Craftsmanship"
23:24 The Cross and Unjust Suffering
24:32 "Triumph of Divine Love"
29:03 "Over