For we are His workmanship [His own master work, a work of art], created in Christ Jesus [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, ready to be used] for good works, which God prepared [for us] beforehand [taking paths which He set], so that we would walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us]. Ephesians 2:10 AMP
One day at lunch, I went to the nearby Institute of Contemporary Art in the Boston Seaport District with a work friend. I confess my tastes run more towards the masters and sometimes struggle with contemporary works. I would rather look at a Titian than a Warhol. But that day, I saw several pieces that intrigued me created from repurposed materials, scrap metal, old paper, cardboard, etc. Without having read the exhibit label on the composition, it would not have been obvious what medium was used. They had been made into something new.
Something like that happens when we come to Christ. God turns all the stuff we bring into our relationship into something new. As the finished creation, what was once there–our addictions, brokenness, heartache, and selfishness–are made into God's masterpiece. However, this transformation will likely be a gradual process. Although God clearly pictures the final result, often, the material needs to be reworked in the creation process.
Artist God, we give thanks for your transformation. You take all our mental, emotional, and spiritual baggage and make something new and beautiful out of it. Help us be patient in our formation and accept that change is not instantaneous. Open our hearts to the new possibilities of who we may become. Grant us the wisdom and strength to do your good works. In Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
