One of my favorite pieces of art is Van Gogh’s Starry Night. The paint strokes convey a feeling of movement, and the colors are vibrant. The bright stars call your attention upward toward the sky, and the placement of the tall cypress tree helps direct your gaze up the painting.
It is the most recognized painting in modern art and is on permanent display at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. But, if you buy a frame from your local hobby supply store, you may find Starry Night as the printed insert.
The print is nice; it conveys the beauty and emotion of the original. But, it’s flat. It is missing the character of the original. The print is only a reflection of the original.
The Creator
In Genesis 1, we see the creation story. It begins with God entering the scene to exercise His creative power. He speaks, and space and time come into existence. Light floods the infant universe as the Spirit of God hovers across this newly created heaven and earth.
Each day of creation is marked with a pattern. God speaks, and the object of His recitation comes into existence. When God reviews His daily creation, He admires the work and calls it good.
This pattern continues until it is abruptly interrupted on Day 6. On this day, decides to create something unique. He decides to create a creature that will bear His own image and likeness. This creature will be formed by the hands of the Creator, unlike the other creatures that came into being with just His words.
This creature will be given authority over creation. This male and female will be called to partner with God in stewarding the creation. This image-bearer will be the pinnacle of God’s creation.
At the close of Day 6, God reviews His creation and calls it very good.
The Created
Mankind was created with purpose and meaning. We were given the privilege of partnering with God in His creation.
As image-bearers, we reflect the Creator. As we live our lives, we have the opportunity to point people to King Jesus. The power of Jesus works in our lives through the indwelling Holy Spirit to live a life of holiness.
In Matthew 5:48, Jesus calls us to be perfect, as our Father is perfect. This initially sounds impossible, but God would not ask us to live this life if it were not possible. The Creator has made you to be a holy reflection to your friends, family, and community.
Your life should be a reflection of the Creator’s character.
