Beautiful Mosaics

My husband and I recently viewed a documentary about some of the most beautiful, old buildings in Europe. The majestic artwork that graced the walls of some of these castles and cathedrals were absolutely breathtaking. The combination of color and design was exquisite. Viewing this exquisite art hanging on the walls filled the mind with images of a master painter mixing colors on his palette and carefully applying paint to canvas. This could not have been more wrong.

The narrator of this film explained that weather often damaged the paints used centuries ago. To avoid this fading or running of color some artists chose to create their masterpieces using mosaics. Instead of grand brushstrokes, the tedious process of piecing petite shards of colored glass together created this beauty that would not only be enjoyed when it was newly crafted, but would stand beautifully for centuries to come. What began as tiny bits were now combined into this beautiful new creation.

By definition, a mosaic is a picture or decoration made of small, usually colored pieces of inlaid stone, glass, etc. Many mosaics begin with pieces of broken glass or pottery. An initial look at that glass or pottery would seem anything but beautiful. Various sizes, colors and designs seemingly have no purpose or beauty. In the skillful hands of a craftsman these nondescript pieces are brought together to form something beautiful. The pieces have now become a masterpiece. Sometimes a clutter of inexpensive pottery and colored vases are intentionally broken and reconstructed into beautiful mosaic wall hangings. These mosaics can evoke memories of the initial statues and vases, but the reconstruction has now brought elegance to what may have been plain, everyday items.

I recently heard the statement, “Pieces of the past in the hands of the master become a masterpiece.” Reflecting on our past many of us can say that some of the toughest times we have endured have led to the most beautiful outcomes. There are many examples in Scripture of this occurring. One of the most prominent that comes to mind is the story of Joseph. After being sold into slavery by his brothers, lied about and unjustly put in prison, Joseph became the vehicle used to save his father’s entire family from death caused by a famine. (See Genesis chapters 37–50) When reunited with his brothers, Joseph made this statement. “As for you, you thought evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring about that many people should be kept alive, as they are this day.”  (Genesis 50:20 AMP) All the brokenness led to beauty.

Most of our lives will not be as dramatic as Joseph’s life was. Yet we may find that we encounter extremely difficult challenges. There may be times that we feel utterly broken and possibly useless. What we hold dear may come crashing down around us. And this may not be a one-time occurrence. Rather we may be able to look back at several challenging, heartbreaking times in our lives. Yet amazingly enough, it is possible to see a great beauty that has come out of all the brokenness. Speaking to hurting people the prophet Isaiah looked forward to Jesus who would come, “To grant [consolation and joy] to those who mourn in Zion—to give them an ornament (a garland or diadem) of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, the garment [expressive] of praise instead of a heavy, burdened, and failing spirit…” (Isaiah 61:3a AMP) This proclamation does not end merely with relief from sadness, but it continues on to show a greater work of God in His children. “…that they may be called oaks of righteousness [lofty, strong, and magnificent, distinguished for uprightness, justice, and right standing with God], the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.” (Isaiah 61:3b AMP) The formidable strength of a mighty oak tree is the outcome for those who trust Jesus with the ashes and pieces of trials.

During the difficult times we may see dreams broken to pieces. We must believe that God will use these pieces. He has given us this promise. “We are assured and know that [God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose.”  (Romans 8:28 AMP) The resulting mosaic that He designs will contain all the beauty of the work of the master designer. “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” (Ephesians 2:10 NLT)

Do not give up on the shattered pieces of your life. Look expectantly for God to arrange these pieces into a beautiful new mosaic. You are His masterpiece.