(c) 2024 Anna M. K. Hazen
In the journey of faith and life, understanding our identity and purpose is crucial. The words “created,” “formed,” and “made” encapsulate the divine interaction that God has with humanity. Each word reflects a facet of God’s intent for creation, serving as a foundation upon which we can build our lives. This chapter will explore these terms through Biblical scripture and relevant real-life events, illustrating how God’s creative act influences our existence and calling.
Created: The Divine Blueprint
The concept of being “created” begins in the very first book of the Bible. Genesis 1:26-27 states:
“Then God said, ‘Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.’ And God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.”*
This scripture establishes that we are unique creations, molded in the image of the Creator. The implications of this are profound—our identities are intertwined with the Creator’s essence.
Real-Life Application
Consider the impactful story of an artist, Vincent Van Gogh, who struggled for acceptance and understanding throughout his life. Despite his difficulties, Van Gogh painted masterpieces that conveyed deep emotions and perspectives of beauty seen through his eyes. His determination to express himself reminds us of our Creator’s desire for self-expression through each of us. Van Gogh once said, “I am seeking. I am striving. I am in it with all my heart.” His pursuit speaks to the innermost reality that stems from being created in God’s image—an intrinsic need to express, relate, and realize our potential. I thank my eldest daughter for introducing me to him through his work.
Formed: The Careful Craftsmanship
The word “formed” introduces the idea of intentional design and care. Isaiah 64:8 declares: “But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand.” This imagery of pottery illustrates how God intricately shapes our lives. Just as a potter molds clay into a vessel, God forms our character, experiences, and destinies.
Real-Life Example
Consider the life of Helen Keller, who, despite being deaf and blind and mute, became an influential author and activist. Helen once said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Her story demonstrates being formed not just by circumstance but through the nurturing relationships and education she received from others, particularly Anne Sullivan, her teacher who got her training from Graham Bell. Yes, that one.
Helen Keller’s life exemplifies how God forges our paths, often through the hands of others, by providing unique experiences and opportunities for growth. In this way, the act of forming us is not just solitary but embedded within community and purpose.
Made: The Purposeful Revelation
Lastly, we arrive at “made,” which signifies completion and purpose. Ephesians 2:10 affirms this perspective: “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
Being “made” underscores that there is a divine purpose to our existence. We do not simply come into being; we are crafted with intentionality to contribute meaningfully to the world around us.
Real-Life Reflection
Take the story of Maura McHugh, a mother from Ireland who, after losing her son, employed her grief to create a charity that supports bereaved parents. Her journey from sorrow to purpose reflects the essence of being made.
Maura’s transformation is a powerful reminder that our struggles and trials often serve as the crucible through which God reveals our true purpose. By utilizing our experiences—good and bad—we can serve others and fulfill the call to be agents of change and love in our communities.
The journey of being created, formed, and made is deeply rooted in scripture and echoed in the stories of those around us. As we explore these concepts, we need to remember that we are part of a divine narrative that extends beyond ourselves.
From the initial act of creation, through the process of being formed, and culminating in our purpose-filled lives, we are reminded of our worth and calling.
Embrace your identity as a marvelous creation of God, intricately formed with care and imbued with a unique purpose. In every new beginning, recognize the divine hand at work, setting the stage for what lies ahead.
As we navigate through the complexities of life, may we continuously seek the truth of our creation and be empowered to walk boldly in the light of our calling, remembering we are all equal sparks of the living God.
Remember to keep your wicks trimmed and your lanterns filled with oil! THE KING IS COMING!