Kings of the earth and all peoples,
    princes and all rulers of the earth!
 Young men and maidens together,
    old men and children!
Let them praise the name of the Lord,
    for his name alone is exalted;
    his majesty is above earth and heaven.
Psalm 148:11-13 English Standard Version

Sometimes at dinner we use “Discussion Cards” to start us off. Tonight the question asked: What type of art we each found most inspiring, and why? My youngest, Riesa (9 years old), asked “Does God’s artwork count?” Not really knowing where she was headed, but not feeling that I had the authority to exclude God’s artwork from the pool of available art, I said “Sure!”

“Then mine is sunsets and my family.” she said.

I don’t really have any trouble thinking of this sunset as a work of art created by God. When I go out into nature, the beauty there is often overwhelming. It inspires awe. It leads me to praise God. Sometimes it causes me to sing. His creation is amazing. But Riesa took it to a much bolder level. She declared that her family is a work of art. The fact that this includes me is not quite sinking in yet. I don’t generally think of myself as God’s artwork.

You are God’s masterpiece. Just as all of nature causes me to be awestruck by God, you and I ought to do the same for each other. Psalm 148 lists God’s creation and it builds from the sun, moon and stars to the creatures of the earth and then to kings and princes and young and old men and women. The crescendo comes at the end with Israel, His holy people.

The gathering of God’s people is the apex of his creation. When we gather together to praise Him it is as though God has touched the canvas with His brush and each person is part of His art.

Text Copyright David Brukiewa
Photo Copyright Douglas P Brauner