Why bother creating something?

Why invent that specific widget when there's a sort-of-close-but-not-quite version at the local superstore? What's the point of painting an original when countless reproductions abound? Why open the specialty coffee shop you've been dreaming of when dozens of franchises dot the landscapes?

Why build or make something when it's so much easier to just ... not?

Good question. Especially after weighing risk against reward and imagining a few worst-case scenarios. It takes all of five seconds to see that creating something meaningful can be costly and complicated.

So how is it worth it?

Ask an inventor, an artist, or an entrepreneur, and they'll tell you that it just is. They'll tell you it's not solely about the finished product. They'll describe the joy of the process--the satisfaction attained through brainstorming, problem solving, implementing, growing, and improving. They'll light up as they break down the unexpected discoveries made along the way, like the prize of preserving and incredible new avenues through which they can give and love.

Ask the Creator Himself, and He will tell you the same. It's worth it. He paid the cost and knows our reward. He is greater than any worst-case scenario. Read His Word, and you'll discover that He created you, formed you, redeemed you, and called you by name. He'll tell you He has a plan for your life and that you're not a discount, sort-of-close-but-not-quite version of anyone else. You are you, and you have a specific purpose. His entire collection contains not a single reproduction. And despite how crowded this planet can sometimes feel, your life proves you need to exist. It also confirms there are good works for you to do. 

Because we are made in God's image, we're created to dream, create, serve, love, and walk in the things He created in advance for us to do. The discovery and progression of it all is for our good and His glory. It's a big deal. It's where we catch the most life-changing glimpses of who He is and who we are in Him.

Look at Peter, Matthew, and the rest of the gang. Before Jesus ever called them by name, God had already purposed every single event we read in our Bibles today. They were chosen. Their good works were already prepared. Their job was to walk them out. 

Lest we get hung up on the grandiosity of their calling and deem ourselves losers by comparison, remember that we're chosen to do the same thing: to further the kingdom and create disciples. God has already created the unique ways through which we can fulfill the Great Commission. Our job is to actually go for it.

Wonderfully, that can happen anytime and anywhere--in a machine shop, a painting class, or the corner table in your specialty coffee shop. 

PRAYER FOCUS

Ask God to reveal to you how you can maximize your calling and discover the "good works" God created us to do.

MOVING FORWARD

• Describe a meaningful work you've been part of.
• What did you learn about God through-out the process?
• What unique opportunities can you create to further the kingdom?