We are a work of art, created by the Master Himself

Posted by Eddie Nolan on Dec 24, 2010 in Daily Bread | 3 comments

The Apostle Paul explains to us what our purpose is in life. We were created to praise and worship our Living God. It does not, however, end there. We are also called to bring others into a relationship with God…to go and spread the “Good News” of Jesus Christ.

God created man in His own image. He sent us a perfect example of Himself – Jesus Christ, His only Son. Jesus lived a life of perfection. He taught us many incredible things including “The Greatest Commandment”:

Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” – Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV)

Yet in our humanness, we continue to mess things up. I, for one, continuously struggle with greed and selfishness. I attempt to put others ahead of myself, but often I fail. Often, I do not love others as myself. No matter what I try to do, I can never handle this on my own.

The beautiful thing is that God loves us (that’s right – YOU and me) so much that He sent His One and Only Begotten Son to die a horrific death to bring us back into communion with Him. To make us whole and atone for our sins. Jesus suffered and died so that YOU can do what you were truly created (in Christ Jesus) for!!! Have you ever given that some serious thought?

I get it! I understand the gift that has been given to me. I am so thankful to be writing this Feed One Another on Christmas Eve. What a great time to reflect on the sacrifice that was made for me (us).
It is also amazing to realize that we are God’s handiwork. We are perfect in His eyes. Remember, He created each of us in His image!

We are also created to do His work, which means to share our faith in Him! We do not have to do this alone. He gave us the gift of the Holy Spirit to guide us along our way. We are never alone when we have Jesus in our heart.

Finally, in this verse, we are told that we have some “skin in the game”. God has already taken care of all the hard work. He has set up some divine appointments for us. All we have to do is step up to the plate and be honest about how we feel. To tell others about what He has done for us and how it has changed us for the better.

I love baptisms! I can see a perfect stranger get baptized and it is significant to me. It is significant because I know that someone is dying to themselves’ (and to this world) and letting Jesus live thru them.
This is so contrary to our society. This is so different from what we see every day. Yet, this is what God created us to do. This is the purpose He has for us. The question is, are you slowing down this holiday? Are you removing the distractions to focus on what He has planned for you? Remember, you are not alone. Remember the gift that has been given to you!

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. – Isaiah 9:6

My prayer is that we will all take a moment to focus on Him this Christmas. To thank him for what He has done. To appreciate the gift He has given us in Jesus. To be still and know that He is always with us. That He will not forsake us. That He has created us in His image for a purpose.