The Value of Art

I think one of the most encouraging phrases in the bible comes from Ephesians 2:10 where it says, "we are God's workmanship created in Christ Jesus to do good works."  This phrase emphasizes God's divine craftsmanship involved in making each one of us.  The Greek word for "workmanship" is "poiema," suggesting a work of art.  This implies that we are intentionally, intricately, and creatively designed by God.  We see this in Genesis 1 where God formed humanity with purpose and care.  Then in Psalm 139, the psalmist declares that he is fearfully and wonderfully made.  Sadly, I think we all experience times when we don't feel valuable, dissatisfied with how God created us, and wished He could have a do over.  It's at those times in particular, I believe God wants to reassure us of our status as His masterpiece.

In the Men's Ministry that meets on Sundays, we're currently reading a book called "The Men We Need" by Brant Hansen.  In one of the recent chapters, Hansen wrote:
"A friend who is an artist told me about a discussion he had with a professor at his university about value. How is value determined in the art world? What is something really worth? The professor said two things determine value: Who's the creator, and how much is someone knowledgeable willing to pay for the creation? Think about that with regard to your own value. Take it in. Internalize it."

You were created by God.  You were made in His image.  Then when you went astray, God bought you back.  Paul says in 1 Corinthians 6:20, "you were bought at a price."  When we look around today, I think we can see prices rising -- food, gas, housing, travel, etc.  Be it due to tariffs or economic conditions or the war, prices for most things are higher than before.  Well you and I were bought at a price.  God paid a price to buy us back, to redeem us.  And that price cannot be quantified.  

I Peter 1:18-19 says, "For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life . . . but with the precious blood of Christ."  Back then, silver and gold were considered the most valuable and enduring materials.  However, Peter contrasts these with the eternal value of Christ's sacrifice.  Redemption is the act of being bought back or liberated from bondage.  In biblical times, redemption often referred to the freeing of a slave through the payment of a ransom. 

How valuable are we?  Well I think scripture is clear.  We are of inestimable value to God.  He is our creator.  We are the work of His hands.  And we have been freed, redeemed, and ransomed by the precious blood of Jesus Christ.  God loved us so much that He sacrificed His only Son that we might live with purpose and peace in Him.

God bless,
Pastor Darren