The Master Architect

Ephesians 2:19-22

We are carefully joined together in him, becoming a holy temple for the Lord. (Ephesians 2:21)

THE CONSTRUCTION OF Canterbury Cathedral began in 597 and did not reach its final form until 1510—more than nine centuries later. In fact, many medieval cathedrals were built with timelines that were centuries long. Sometimes they were built in stages, with long periods in between, and sometimes the next stage wasn’t planned until it was deemed necessary. But many workers on such massive projects knew they would never see the finished form in their own lifetimes. One generation built foundations that would be necessary for the work of generations to come.

God’s work is like that, but on an even greater scale. For a long time, his blueprints were hidden to all but a few key leaders. In fact, they were not visible until the revelation of Jesus. But now they are an open record, and the project is stunning in scope. It no longer includes only the parties to the first covenant; it has expanded to the entire human race. Any who enter into it by faith become part of the grand construction that has been in the works since before time began.

As you learn to envision the master builder’s enormous construction project, you enter into your daily interactions a bit differently—with patience, wisdom, a discerning eye toward the gifts and roles of the people around you, an understanding of where you fit in the entire scheme, an appreciation of the diversity of materials he is using, and a sense of unity with every other participant in the plan. This is not just a beautiful building; it’s a holy temple, designed and fitted to host the presence of God himself. It’s a visible expression of who he is in this world. Live with that perspective—the long one, full of grace and gratitude. Your sense of destiny for others will draw them into God’s grand enterprise on earth.

{Father, you are the master architect, and your work is amazing. Let me see glimpses not only of the blueprint but of the finished project. Captivate my vision with what you are building. Use me to draw many into it. Amen.