Monday, March 17, 2025

A New Creation

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV) – “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

Message: I love building new things.  Whether it’s a model, Legos, or a project that allows me to watch something take shape, there’s a joy in seeing it all come together.  But what I probably love even more is repurposing or fixing up older things to make them feel brand new.  There’s something so satisfying about taking what’s worn or broken and breathing new life into it – not throwing it out, but transforming it into something new and meaningful again.

That’s what I love about this Scripture.  When Paul talks about being a new creation, it’s not about discarding who we were, but allowing Christ to take our lives – flaws, struggles, and all – and transform us.  He breathes new life into us, giving us a fresh start while building on the journey we’ve already walked.  It’s a chance to see how far we’ve come, in and through Him.

Whenever we see the word “therefore” in Scripture, it’s a reminder to ask: “Why is it there?”.  In this passage, Paul is pointing back to the incredible truth he’s just outlined: Christ’s love for us, which led Him to the cross, changes everything.  Because of Jesus’ sacrifice, we no longer live in fear of sin or death.  His love is the most powerful force in the world, and it compels us to change.

As Methodists, we believe faith is both a gift and an action – a cooperative relationship with God.  Christ’s grace transforms us, but we also choose, day by day, to embrace that transformation.  We’re invited to participate in the process of becoming a new creation, allowing God to reshape our hearts and renew our lives for His purposes.

Challenge: Reflect on one “old” part of your life – a habit, mindset, or fear – that you’ve been holding onto.  Ask God for the strength to let it go and for wisdom to see how He’s reshaping you.  Then take one practical step to live out this transformation, today!

Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your love that transforms us.  Help me to embrace being a new creation, to let go of fear and sin, and to walk daily in Your grace.  Shape my life to reflect Your love, and bring new meaning to the world around me.  Amen.

Pastor Will Kendust

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 Revised:  February 18, 2025

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