“For we are His workmanship [poem], created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).”

When I framed this photograph, I wasn’t photographing the lone post standing in the middle of the scene. As a matter of fact, you’ll have to zoom in to see the little guy. But if that post could think, it might imagine it was the reason for the picture. After all, it occupies the center of the frame. It could easily conclude that the sunset exists to showcase its importance.

But nothing could be further from the truth.

The post didn’t create the breathtaking colors stretching across the sky. It didn’t paint the clouds with brilliant shades of gold, crimson, and violet. It didn’t calm the water or arrange the reflections dancing across its surface. It simply found itself standing in the middle of something far greater than itself.

As a photographer, I’ve learned an important lesson from moments like this. I don’t create beauty; I simply capture it. I don’t manufacture magnificent sunsets. I merely point my camera toward what God has already displayed. In that sense, every landscape photograph is an act of humble plagiarism. The masterpiece belongs to the Creator. I simply preserve a glimpse of what His hands have made.

The same truth applies to every follower of Christ. We live in a world that constantly encourages us to become the center of attention—to build our reputation, showcase our accomplishments, and make life revolve around ourselves. Yet Scripture reminds us of a much different reality: “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).

Paul’s point is profound. We are not the artist; we are the artwork. Every evidence of grace, every act of love, every measure of wisdom, every victory over sin, and every good work accomplished through our lives is the product of God’s creative hand. We are His workmanship, His masterpiece, shaped by His grace for His purposes.

There will be moments when we find ourselves standing in the center of the picture. People may notice us, appreciate us, or even admire what God has done in our lives. But if our lives are healthy, they will soon discover that the beauty isn’t ours. Like the post in the photograph, we are simply standing in the middle of a display of God’s glory.

May we never mistake our position for our importance. The beauty is not ours to claim. It belongs to the One who painted the sky, redeemed our souls, and continues His transforming work within us. Our greatest privilege is not being the center of attention, but pointing others to the One who deserves it. For every masterpiece ultimately tells us something about its Maker.  –PGR

Photo by: Divine Design Photography