I love the Olympics.  There is something fun and exciting about them.  The competition, the drive, the determination of all the athletes representing their country is something to be admired.

The other night we joined the world in watching the opening ceremonies that kicked everything off.  I always enjoy the creative ways the host country uses to show what they are all about.  Icons and figure heads always come forward; and this year was no different. From James Bond to Sir Paul McCartney and Mr. Bean to The Queen herself (parachuting out of a helicopter mind you) – everyone played their part.

On the main field there were hundreds (if not thousands) of volunteers who also wanted to take part in this momental occasion.  Without each and everyone of those volunteers – it just would not look the same.  The big vision that the creator had for this particular production would have fallen severely short if each participant failed to perform.

You see, we too have a part to play in the big picture.  Just as I previously discussed regarding being fearfully and wonderfully made, we have a God who has a purpose for you.  We serve a God who created you as His work of Art!

Ephesians 2:10 (AMP) “For we are God’s [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].”

I would challenge you to stop and ponder this verse for a few minutes…too many times we breeze past versus like this and we don’t really stop to take it in.

I want you to take a few things from here:

1. You are God’s Handiwork

This means, quite simply (yet very profoundly), that God created each and everyone of us like a masterpiece…a work of art.  If you believe the Bible is the true word of God – then this alone should be a humbling verse.  Pause.  Think through this.  This means, no matter what someone else might have told you, you are no accident.  You are not junk.  God doesn’t make garbage – He only makes art – and you are His masterpiece.

2. You were created to do good works

Simple.  God created us to do good works…that is our purpose.

3. He prepared those good works for us

This is where I got stumped on this verse.  God created us to do good works…which He prepared for us in advance.  This means…its not our story, its His!  Whatever you are doing…whatever you want to do…its not about you…its about Him.

4. The pressure is off

I love that!  Read Ephesians 2:10 again.  If you believe it…truly believe it…then all the pressure is gone.  We know that we were created by Him and for Him to do Good Works (which He already planned)…so He has prepared the way…you don’t have to develop the master plan – He already did.  All you need to do is listen to Him and be obedient to His calling.

I am going to leave it there for today…but oh, how I am excited to go deeper on this one so stay tuned.  We are building something here, and I am excited you are involved.

Here’s my challenge to you today – reflect on Ephesians 2:10 along with Psalm 139…see how you were created with a purpose, a plan and a destiny.  Ask God to speak to you differently today then ever before…ask Him to show you His plan.  I know He will answer.

Question: How can you show God’s plan to those around you?