Something for today

We are starting up our theme for the youth this year. It is out of 2 Cor 3:18. Our theme is "Transformed". Now I know that this is not a revolutionary or even original theme but I really think it is a concept that our teens need to hear. A mighty misunderstanding of Christ is that he is like a "one use only" savior who saves us once and flees the scene waiting on our eventual arrival in heaven. The bible speaks of so much more than that. In this passage Paul is speaking of a hope that is dead for the Jews but is alive in Christ. He calls those who don't have Christ "dull" and "veiled". But just as a groom removes the veil from his bride, so does Christ remove the veil of our sin and shame from our hearts. Then Paul wraps his thoughts by saying:

"And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." 2 Cor 3:18

This verse brings me so much joy because:

1. This seems to be more passive than active from our end. This doesn't mean that we don't play an active part in the redemptive plan of God but that our transforming is done by the very will of God. He intends to make us like his son. Our transformation is only done because God wants it done. That is comforting to me. The plain reality is that I don't know how to transform myself. God knows I have tried. God knows that I have failed as well.

2. This is an ongoing process. Though I struggle daily, I can know that if I have faith in God, even through my failures, I will be a transformed person. This process will not happen today or tomorrow yet I know it will happen. Being patient with God is often our greatest battle.

3. I will be like him someday, when I least suspect it! God's glory will be shown through me (and is showing now I am sure) in ways that I never thought possible. Imagine what God has in store for those he has transformed! Imagine what we will look like! My feeble mind fails at trying to figure this out.

Well hopefully that lifts up your hearts. I hope everyone is doing well and I look forward to hearing from you.

Chris