Purposeful Lives Sculpture

Members of the Pioneer class of 1972 gather around their gift of the Purposeful Lives sculpture at the dedication ceremony, timed to honor their 50th class reunion at MidAmerica Nazarene University.

PURPOSEFUL LIVES PORTRAYED IN NEW CAMPUS SCULPTURE

A new sculpture graces the north end of the beautiful campus mall at MNU. Purposeful Lives is a depiction of Jesus, and two college-age young adults, conversing with him as Jesus gestures toward a path. Purposeful Lives is meant to show that students experience transformation during their years in college and that seeking Jesus can point them in a spirit-led direction.

“Whether it is by finding their calling, strengthening their Christian faith or persevering through difficult moments in life, alumni tell us that the MNU experience changes students’ lives,” says Dr. David Spittal, MNU president. “This beautiful piece is the artistic expression of the path to a purposeful life we hope all students will find here.”

Photos below: Scott Stearman, artist who created the sculpture for MNU, and his wife Hermine live in Oklahoma City and attend Bethany First Church of the Nazarene. See more of Scott’s artistry at scottstearman.com.; The Purposeful Lives sculpture installed on the campus mall Homecoming weekend.

Scott Stearman created this sculpture, and the Harvest Prayer sculpture already gracing the campus. His commissioned military monuments and faith sculptures are found at universities and in communities across the U.S. When creating his art, Stearman seeks to tell a story and portray lasting truth through his work.

“I’m very aware that my sculptures will outlive me, so the messages I put into them will need to stand the test of time,” Stearman says.

There is eternal truth in the message portrayed by Purposeful Lives. The female student holds an open Bible on which Jeremiah 29:11 is visible. The scripture says that God has a plan for our lives.

“If there is anything a college student needs to hear, it’s that God has a plan for my life,” Stearman says. “The young man’s finger marks a spot in his Bible suggesting he has been reading as well. Jesus is giving them a promise, ‘you can trust me with your life.’ He’s also showing them the path, saying ‘let’s walk this way.’”

Stearman hopes these truths flow from his hands into the hearts of the observer. “Walk the path with Jesus to a purposeful life,” he adds.

Working in television and film since the 1970s and as a professional sculptor since 1985, Stearman approaches his work with an artist’s eye and a sensitive heart; always looking for the truth of the story he seeks to tell.

“I believe in the power of art to speak into our culture,” Stearman says. “Art should provide clarity, illumination, and understanding. A deeper insight into the wonders of life and love and faith.

Purposeful Lives Sculpture on the campus mall of MidAmerica Nazarene University