Masterpiece in Progress

The story of salvation unfolding, however slowly it occurs, is one of the most beautiful occurences to watch and take part in as the Lord creates a masterpiece. He carefully paints each stroke with tenderness, love, and individuality. We cannot rush what He has in mind, we cannot be impatient or attempt to distract Him. He takes His time and allows those observing to guess at what the final product will look like, but surprises us with every movement of His paint brush, with every strength-filled molding of the clay. The conclusion, Christ in the saved person, offers an entirely new creation. What is old is gone, what is new is come. The former life is forgiven, forgotten, only as Christ can, and a rejuvenated, recreated, revived individual has new life breathed into their lungs.

Refreshing to remind myself of is that once salvation is complete, the work is not done. We strive for sanctification- to be more like Christ. This work is never complete. I am the clay and the Lord is the potter. He molds me and shapes me into the woman, the person, the child of God He wants me to become. Sometimes I try to use my own hands to craft who I am, but this results in rough edges, bumpy spots, and uneven surfaces. When I surrender to the Lord's leading and pursue the heart of the Master Craftsman, this is when the clay begins to smooth, even out, and look beautiful. Thankfully, the Lord is gracious and merciful, so when I am not so beautiful, not so perfect, He sees beauty and perfection in Dulcy, His daughter, His child, His masterpiece in progress.

And this He offers to all. If only you will accept His offer, He will take the paintbrush from your shaky, clumsy, and inexperienced hands and begin the progress of His beautiful masterpiece.

2 Corinthians 5:17