Tapestries in Heaven

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I was listening to a speaker on a video the other day who was discussing the idea that some human creations or efforts will be represented in heaven one day.  We like to think that those of us with artistic ability will be able to put that to use as an offering to God on the new earth, and perhaps those with gifts in science or mathematics will forever discover and make known the wonder's of God's creation to His praise and glory.  If this is true, than the things that we are working at now, may very well be preparing us for our future in heaven. 

But then I thought about people like my dad, who find themselves working a job that doesn't seem to have much eternal value.  Many people don't get the privilege of having a vocation that suites their gifting or interests--yet they work diligently to provide for their family.

I'm reminded of the principle that is taught throughout the Bible that God looks at the heart, and is not as much concerned with outward appearances and actions as He is with the meditation of our hearts.  Not that my paintings and Sunday School lessons aren't beautiful in God's sight, but that perhaps it is the effort or motivation which I may utilize to create such things for His glory that really bring a smile to God's face.  And yet, how often I seek the smiles of human faces first and foremost!  Like the Pharisee of Luke 18, I run the very great risk of receiving my entire reward in full right here on earth, because people see my "eternal contributions" and praise them.  Or even more perilously, because I see my "eternal contributions" and esteem them!  This, I think, is the very great challenge and trial which those of us face, who are blessed with the opportunity to serve God in the ways we love.

For those like my father, the Bible offers this encouragement:

·      It is the man who lives out his days collecting taxes, in Matthew 18, who Jesus says will be exalted!  Not because of the eternal significance of that vocation--but because of the humble spirit it afforded him.

·      Matthew 5, one of the greatest passages for pointing out the rewards God offers, speaks not of rewards for any physical action or creation, but for attitudes of the heart - many of which result from struggle!

·      Romans 12:1 points out that it is the life of sacrifice that is holy, acceptable, and worshipful to God.

·      Hosea 6:6 says that it is steadfast love and knowledge of God that He desires in His servants--not tangible displays of service.

So what will represent the life work of the tax collector, the gas pumper, or the waitress in heaven?  I would like to speculate that perhaps the greatest tapestries adorning that great city will be those woven with threads of humility, faithfulness, patience, and hunger for God.  Like the prayers of the saints that are depicted as incense in Revelation 5, perhaps the spirit of servitude that God alone sees in the man who puts in another hard day's work--day after day, will be visible, quantifiable and cherished in heaven as the most extraordinary of crafts presented to the King.