You Are God’s Masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10)

As a girl, I memorized Ephesians 2:10: “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them” (KJV). 

God’s workmanship. The Greek word poiema: “a thing which is made,” “a work of a creator,” “a work.” Like a blacksmith or furniture maker.

If Jesus, as a carpenter, shapes us, how wonderful. 

Same verse also reads: “For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (NIV).

God’s handiwork. This sounds more decorative, less utilitarian. Not a plow, but gingerbread trim on a house. Not a kitchen table, but smocking on a child’s dress. Still somewhat useful, but also decorative.

Same verse also reads: “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago” (NLT).

God’s masterpiece. A Rembrandt. A Michelangelo. 

As my sister Jonelle said, “A masterpiece exists solely to give pleasure to the viewer.”

A masterpiece gives joy to the viewer.

John Burke, in Unshockable Love, said that each of us is like a Rembrandt with mud and filth on us: priceless, but dirty. 

As believers, part of our job is to say, “I still see the masterpiece that's underneath all of these layers. And I can introduce you to the Master Restorer, who can make who can restore and repair the masterpiece.”

Lord God, restore and cleanse. And after we have been restored and cleansed, may we go into the world, with your heart of love and compassion, to find the masterpieces hidden in each of your children.

Lord, send us into this broken, hurting world! May Jesus receive the full reward for his suffering. Amen.

May we live for the praise of his glory,

Amy Joy

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