On another wall hangs another painting. This one is as unique but not as large; 24”x20”. Though it is difficult for me to describe, it has a male from the shoulders up, holding two small lit candles up in the air emanating light into darkness. In the forefront is the shadow of the cross stretching across the person from the lower left corner to the upper right corner. This painting was a gift from a high school friend. Our high schools were basketball rivals and when we played Matt and I guarded each other. I met up with Matt years later and he came to hear me preach. He wasn’t a Christian. I can not tell you the privilege it was for me to have him come. He has since become a believer. He gave me this painting having painted it after hearing my sermon. It also gets mixed reviews when noticed by others, but what special significance it holds for me. I know the artist and why he painted it. Though he could have sold this for a great deal of money, he gave it to me and it is priceless to me.

Of infinitely greater significance to me is the fact that I am a work of art, as are all of God’s people. “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus…” (Ephesians 2:10) The original word for “workmanship” carries the meaning of a poem or a work of art, a creation. Think of it! We are “saved by grace through faith – and this is not from ourselves, it is a gift from God – not by works, so that no one can boast.” (Ephesians 5:8-9) We come to Christ broken, valueless, and ugly to the core. Graciously He re-creates us and puts His Name on us. He is the artist and we are His work of art! We are re-created and are being created in Christ Jesus. He continues His work in and on us as we walk with Him. “If anyone is in Christ he is a new creation; the old is gone, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17) We are beautiful in Him and priceless. Not from ourselves, but God! We should never cease to be astounded that we are indeed His Workmanship – His work of art. What we look like or how much value the world may place upon us really is of no significance because we are God’s priceless work of art!

But we are not merely a painting or sculpture to be placed on display. No, we are His work of Art “to do the good works God has prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 5:10c) We are functional works of art. Participants in His creating work. Be careful not to misconstrue this verse. This is not suggesting that our life is already predetermined. It is letting us know that God has already prepared the way for us to be involved in His work. His “good” work – the holy and righteous work. Good works don’t save, but the saved do good works to accomplish His plans and purposes for His glory and honor. Participation in the good work is not really an option for us, for we are created to do them. Not to do them is a denial of who and what we are in Christ Jesus. Doing them is the fulfillment and delight of our lives for we are God’s work of art in Christ Jesus to do good works!

Beloved let us join together in celebrating that we are God’s work of art and let us do the work we were created for!

Keep Close to Jesus!
Pastor Gerry