For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10
I spent much of the summer in some of the most stunning National Parks in the country. I looked at Yellowstone’s broad fields with lumpy baby bison frisking about. I soaked up the views of Yosemite that caused my neck to crane and my jaw to drop. I was reminded of the spectacular creative nature of the most Holy God.
I saw the variety and wonder of some of God’s natural creation. That helps me remember that each of us, being crafted by this same God, have the potential for heart stopping beauty too. We were created to do good. This week, I noticed two of Covenant’s members engaged in separate ministries to which they were called.
Both of Kelli Kelley’s children were born prematurely. She has taken this life experience and combined it with her natural communication skills, her gifts of encouragement and mercy and created a nonprofit to help others. She then put all that God crafted within her into play so that she could serve others. Her non profit, Hand to Hold, supports families before and after the crisis of having an infant in the crisis filled world of neo natal intensive care. Kelli shows me how someone can be open to becoming a real masterpeice.
Terry Cole is the poster boy for sampling service opportunities until the right connection is made. He began by singing in the choir. As the words of God trickled into his mind and heart through the music that he learned, he began to shift and embrace God’s desires for him. Terry began serving in various ministries through Covenant. He eventually served food to street dependant youth. He found the fit. Terry speaks of what a calling is. He quotes Bill Hybels in a Popeye voice, “It’s the thing that you can’t stands anymore.” Terry found that he could no longer bear to see these youth ignored. He slowly crafted a ministry to meet their needs, introduce them to Jesus and support them as they begin to progress to a healthier life. He too, has cooperated with God’s effort to serve the world.
Am I a masterpiece? Do I realize that my experiences, gifts, personality, strengths are given to me so that I can be a gorgeous expression of God’s love for the world? No pressure, He made me capable of fulfilling his dreams for me. All I have to do is to be ready and open to his will.
If I forget how beautiful that looks, I’m just going to steal a peek at Kelli and Terry. Masterpieces.
Are you interested in learning more about your own calling? Do you want to explore what gifts God has given you for His glory? We are hosting a spiritual gifts class at 9:30 a.m. during the Sunday school hour from October 31 until November 21. We’d love to have you be a part of this class. Register today at bbishop@covenant.org.