Listen

So then, if anyone is in Christ, that person is part of the new creation. The old things have gone away, and look, new things have arrived!

2 Corinthians 5:17

Think

What do you know about Paul, the author of today’s passage? Let me give a rundown in 5 words: Bully. Jesus. Transformed. Traveling teacher.

Paul had a painful history. He was a persecutor of Christians, but then he was transformed by Christ and became one of the best-known advocates of his time for the Christian faith. He became a “new creation,” and I think he’s trying to say that we can be, too.

In a world where everything is all about the newest thing — cell phone, computer, game system, car, style, etc. — this idea of “new” seems insignificant. In our world, as soon as the new thing reaches our hands, there is something newer to take its place.

But Paul is talking about us becoming new. Not an object, but us. When we experience Christ, Christ creates something new in us. This could take the form of love, hope, a passion for justice or ministry… Whatever it is, it’s something good and we should embrace it.

Chris Wondree

Pray

God of new beginnings, help me find a passion to be made new by you. Help open my heart to experience your love and grace in a way that doesn’t leave me where I am but leads me to become “a new creation.” Amen.

Go

Go forth into the world in peace, knowing that the God who made you continues to love, keep, nurture, and grow you. Amen.