The work of God

There are so many different types of work:

• work that requires creativity and artistry, like a work of art or music
• handiwork that requires great care and precision
• heavy, physical labor that requires great strength
• strategic work, planning and executing a battle--of any kind

The bottom line with any kind of work is that it requires some kind of exertion from the one doing the work. The work might be enjoyable--that's the type we all like to have, of course! But even the most enjoyable task demands that we actually do it. Most of us won't get a paycheck otherwise.

While reading in Isaiah this morning, I was reminded of the work God has done on our behalf.

For perspective, I remembered Psalm 19:1, which says that making the universe was merely handiwork for God. The heavens declare the glory of God the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Psalm 102:25 says the same (The heavens are the work of your hands).

Since the heavens are far beyond our wildest imagination in vastness, then if the Creator of the universe needs to do anything else, it should be as nothing to him, shouldn't it? That is why it is so powerful for me to read that bringing our salvation requires much more: the right arm of his strength and power.

The Lord looked and was displeased that there was no justice. He saw that there was no one, and he was appalled that there was no one to intercede; so his own arm worked salvation for him, and his own righteousness sustained him. He put on righteousness as his breastplate, and the helmet of salvation on his head...

Isaiah 59:16,17

He had to come down himself, as Jesus, God in human form, to bring our salvation. The heavens cost him nothing of himself. Next to the task of saving us, making the universe was easy. Salvation was expensive and cost him everything.

Lord, how can I ever thank you enough for coming down--and continuing to come down--to intercede for me and to be with me in my daily life?

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

John 3:16