Christian Ornaments

Titus 2:10-11 – [They are] to show complete and perfect fidelity, so that in everything they may be an ornament to the doctrine of God our Saviour. For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all. (NRSV)

In the gift shop of the local Chamber of Commerce, I was examining an ornament created by a local artist. The artist had spent many hours carving the wooden base and sculpting the ceramic rose. Each petal was created exactly the right size and scale, and the many shades of pink blended together to make one perfect rose. He had then placed the rose at just the right angle on the base and added the caption: "Thomasville — The City of Roses".

I turned it over and over in my hand, admiring its perfection. When I looked at the price tag, I decided I could not justify buying this lovely work of art. Later, as I thought about it, I realized the artist had created a powerful image to represent his city. He had given the best that was in him to create an ornament to represent something that was important in his life.

To be an ornament for Jesus Christ, we must do the same.

Paul, in writing to Titus in today's Scripture passage, advises him to teach others to show complete and perfect fidelity, to live faithfully, honouring Christ by behaviour and demeanour, to be models of good works — that believers might be ornaments to the doctrine of Christ.

The only image a non-Christian receives of Christianity is what such an individual sees in us. The good works of a Christian decorate the world to the glory of God.

To draw others to the gospel of Christ, we must make it attractive by making our lives appealing and by doing our best, whatever stage of life we are at. If others see beauty and perfection in us, they will want to experience what we have.

Prayer: Lord, help us to be ornaments for You, regardless of age or status. Amen.