Masterpiece

“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” - Psalm 34:18

One of the most treasured porcelain vases in the world dates back to the XIV century.  The Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) was the period when the firing techniques of the Blue and White Porcelain flourished in China. Sold in 1993 for $1.2 million, the vase has 34 centimeters, designed in Yuan style, with cobalt-blue painted on its white background. This is the only type of porcelain vase from that period that still exists.

I cannot imagine owning an item that dates back to the 14^th century. I also cannot imagine paying more than $1 million for any one item…especially a vase. To me, a vase is a vase.  If it holds water and flowers, that’s good enough for me. But to a collector, a vase is not a vase. Such a rare artifact is worth the cost. And while I absolutely appreciate the uniqueness, rarity, and history of the vase I would not be willing to pay the cost to preserve and own it. The risk of it being broken is too high.

Psalm 34:18 reminds us that God is close to the brokenhearted and He saves those who have been crushed in spirit. There is no price that is too high for Him to pay. He gave His one and only Son to redeem His children from the destruction of sin. It is interesting that most pieces of antique porcelain bear what is called a Maker’s Mark. It is a distinguishing signature or symbol that authenticates the origin of the piece.

We, too, bear the Mark of our Maker. The handiwork of His grace is evident in our lives with each piece of our brokenness that He picks up, redeems, and recreates.  Whether it is the self-inflicted brokenness of our sin or the brokenness of circumstances, God is always there working, shaping, restoring, and refining us into a masterpiece of His glory.

Have you been broken? Has your spirit been crushed? God has promised in His Word that He is closer than you can imagine. Cry out to your healer and to the God of your salvation. Choose to believe that He is who He says He is, and that His grace is sufficient for you (2 Corinthians 12:9). 

Father, thank You for Your grace in my life. Help me to trust You even when my circumstances don’t make sense to me. In Jesus’ name, amen.