Recently I heard a story of a woman who died after a long illness. The children wanted to do something special to remember their mother, and at the same time commemorate her life.

They knew that their mother loved to sew. They remembered how, when they were children, she would always make beautiful clothes for them. They started to gather all the clothes they had since they were kids, and started putting them together.

Soon, out of all these different children's clothes, a beautiful work of art came out in the form of a patchwork quilt.

How amazing that out of different types of cloth — different patterns, colors, textures — a beautiful work of art can emerge. In the hands of a skilled artisan, these varied pieces come together as masterpiece of form and beauty.

I see humankind also as a quilt created by God. All of us are unique, created with different talents, different gifts, but that is what makes us special.

When we come together, as diverse and as unique as we are, we are also a beautiful patchwork quilt created by God. United, we are God's masterpiece.

By the way, what a privilege and honor it is for us to live here in Hawai'i where I believe that, like nowhere else in the world, this great patchwork quilt, God's masterpiece, is displayed.

Today, for those who have no idea who they are, where they came from or where they are going, take heart. For those who lack identity and direction in their lives, take heart. God gives us this: "For we are God's masterpiece, created in Jesus Christ for good works" (Ephesians 2:10).

The Rev. Dr. Roy Gaton, who serves as director of spiritual life and pastoral care at Castle Medical Center, lives with his wife and two children in Kailua. Expressions of Faith is a column that welcomes written works on faith and spirituality. E-mail faith@honoluluadvertiser.com or call 525-8035. Articles submitted to The Advertiser may be published or distributed in print, electronic or other forms.