Created To Create: Blank Canvas

“In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth. The earth was without form and void…” The opening words to the book of Genesis are pregnant with expectations and anticipations of what God, the Creator and Master Artist, might do. Even as we sit here with blank canvases before us, God stood before creation and planned all of history. And then He began painting the blank canvas and brought forth life.

As we paint tonight, we have an opportunity to bring forth life…not like God did in Genesis, but our work here and now can bring beauty and inspiration to others. Our work can bring glory to God as we point others to our Creator and Redeemer.

What do you find beautiful in creation? What inspires you? What gives you awe and wonder?

The majestic mountains, the vastness of the oceans, the songs of the birds, the beauty of the trees, the softness of summers rain, the laughter of a child, and the list goes on of God’s handiwork. Consider what the psalmist says, “The heavens declare the glory of God and the sky proclaims his handiwork” (Psalm 19:1).

Every night we have the opportunity to look up at the canvas of the sky and see the beauty of God’s creativity. Sunsets bring forth an array of colors, and as the crimson fades the stars peek through. Soon the night sky is silky black but full of stars, each unfathomably far away and distances we cannot imagine, singing the glory of their Creator.

But there is something, somewhere, you may seldom look to see the beauty of God’s creation.  You actually go to this place and look quite often, but you may not have gone for the reason to see the handiwork of God. Anyone want to guess where that is?

If you said, “a mirror”, then you are correct. The very foundation of this series is that every human is created in the Image of God. That includes you. You are God’s creation, but not only that, in Christ, you are His masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10)! Rather than being a prideful looking into the mirror and boasting about yourself, try a humble appreciation of the creativity of God. And know that He is not finished with you yet, but will continue His work until Christ returns (Philippians 1:6).

One thing that every artist loves is to receive praise and recognition for their work. Whether you know it or not, it is a vulnerable place to set before others your artistic work. In doing so, you reveal some of who you are and how you see the world to others. Therefore, every artist loves to receive an appreciation for their gifts and talents.

As we conclude this series, remember the opportunity we have to see the beauty and artistry of our Creator every day. Praise Him for it! Thank Him for creating it with such beauty and design. Talk to Him about it. And then imitate Him in your life and in your work.