For we are His masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. (NASV) Ephesians 2:10
Anyone out there remember when email became such a big part of our lives? Sure, there was some hesitancy at first. After all it was unknown and unchartered territory. There was some fear. We wondered what would to happen more traditional forms of communication. What if our email ended up in the wrong hands? How well do I know someone before I give them my email address?
However, it was not long before emailing friends, family, loved ones, co-workers, and most in our sphere of influence was everyday life.
I copied and saved emails from my sister and her family when they lived overseas for six years. It was a diary of sorts of their lives there! It was definitely a glimpse into the culture and adventures they experienced there.
Messages from my daughter’s time away at college were stored for many years as well---and were certainly a touchstone while she was away. I reread them often.
During my years as a teacher, it became a great tool for communicating with co-workers, teammates, and parents.
I must admit, however, one of the many facets of “emailing” that I found very enjoyable were the stories and jokes and anecdotes and on-liners that made it from one person’s in-box to another to another to another! Often, they were forwarded with words like this, “I don’t usually forward emails, but this one is so _____ I just had to share!”
Well guess what, my friends! I saved and printed off some of those treasures! They found their way into many retreats I led, coaching sessions, writings, teachings with small groups and trainings over the years! I found an old folder of some of my favorites when I was unpacking after our move to Columbus.
Without any apologies or disclaimers, I am going to share one with you now. It never fails to move me. The images and life-lessons it evokes are priceless. Open your spirit to receive from the One who loves you above all others.
The Master says, "Don't quit! Keep playing!"
When the house lights dimmed and the concert was about to begin, the Mother returned to her seat and discovered that her child was missing.
Suddenly the curtains open and the spotlights focused on the impressive Steinway on stage. In horror, the mother saw her little boy sitting at the keyboard innocently picking out “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.”
At that moment, the great master made his entrance, quickly moved to the piano, and whispered in the boy’s ear, “Don’t quit. Keep playing.”
Then leaning over, Paderewski reached down with his left had and began filling in a bass part. Soon his right arm reached around to the other side of the child, and he added a running obbligato. Together, the old master and the young novice transformed what could have been a frightening situation into a wonderfully creative experience.
The audience was so mesmerized that they could not recall what else the great master played, only the classic tune “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star”.
Perhaps that is the way it is with God. What we can accomplish on our own is hardly noteworthy. We try our best, but the results are not always graceful flowing music. However, with the hand of the Master, our life’s work can truly be beautiful. The next time you set out to accomplish great feats, listen carefully. You may hear the voice of the Master, whispering in your ear, “Don’t quit. Keep playing.”
May you feel His arms around you and know that His hands are there, helping to turn your feeble attempts into true masterpieces. Remember God does not seem to call the equipped rather He equips the called.
May God bless you and be with you always! And remember, “Don’t quit. Keep playing”.
I know, I know! There is some schmaltz to this story and a bit of sentimentality, but what a picture of humility and grace the master provided to the child, and thus to us the reader. He was willing to step down from the loftiness of his reputation and grandeur as one of the greatest pianists of all times, to allow a child to shine! I am not sure I could have done that. My ego can get in the way of humility.
Are you as moved as I am by the image of God’s arms around us, turning our offerings of work and action and serving into a masterpiece? Something that will transform our world with love and light and beauty and grace. Something as memorable as “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.”
Never doubt that the Lord has created you to do life-giving work for Him.
Never doubt He wants to guide and shepherd you all the way through.
Never doubt that YOU are His masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. (Ephesians 2:10)
I have spent over 15 years living and growing into the “good works” God prepared for me. It has taken much perseverance, struggle, false starts, and prayers along the way. I heard Him whisper to me often, Daughter, “Don’t quit. Keep playing”. Many times, I wanted to quit! Coaches, mentors, friends, counselors, and other sojourners traveled with me.
It is hard to take this journey alone. I would love to come alongside you and the Master to help you discover His best for you. Coaching is a soft, yet powerful tool moving you forward into a life of purpose and meaning.
I look forward to encouraging you to— “Don’t Quit. Keep playing.”