What is a “new creation?” Am I one? Are you?
“…if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV).
Who Gets What?
Backgrounds. Everyone has them. They are the backdrop of our todays, the backstory of our narrative.
Some people seem to get all the breaks, and others all the rough stuff.
But have you ever noticed how the outcome can be all twisted up? How worst histories can produce amazing people, and how best pasts can yield rotten consequences?
Father’s Day reminds us of our roots. For me it brings a sense of gratitude. It might bring something different for you. And how does it all tie in with the “new creation” of being in Christ?
The greatest value in a holiday which recognizes our earthly fathers is to point us to the amazing grace and mercy which is ours because of our Heavenly Father.
When the Apostle Paul penned, “…The old has passed away; behold, the new has come…” He had backstory. The greatest value in a holiday which recognizes our earthly fathers is to point us to the amazing grace and mercy which is ours because of our Heavenly Father Click To Tweet
What’s Your Backstory?
Born Saul of Tarsus, he was a Roman Jew and radically opposed to the Christian movement. His background pitted his religious fervor against the very One who came to save him from it. Zealous to protect his beliefs, Paul became accomplice to murder. He consented and was present to the stoning of Stephen, the first martyr for Christ.
But background’s fabric, is an offering, not a definition.
Paul’s radical transformation from a background steeped in tradition and arrogance, didn’t come without pain. His conversion surrendered all he’d known, believed, and lived for. It tore apart what had been, with prejudice, predisposition, and DNA, to make way for what he would become.
Background’s fabric, is an offering, not a definition. Click To TweetStripped of pride in his old identity, Christ birthed a new heritage within Paul. Despite where he’d come from, God specifically designed his past for his future. The gospel, through Paul, denuded of self-righteousness, spread to the Gentiles. When Paul immersed himself in the saving grace of Jesus, his focus completely changed. He gave up the old and embraced his true Father.
Physically sightless Paul emerged from confrontation with the risen Christ on the road to Damascus with cleared spiritual vision.
Paul Became a New Creation.
Paul’s conversion birthed a new creation.
He met a Chain Breaker, a Focus Changer, New Hope, and a Welcoming Father.
“…if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation…”
Had Paul’s background check been different, his credit report spotless, surely the power of his testimony would have also altered. But Paul’s heavenly Father chose to call him His own child.
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed…” John 8:36(ESV)
We wonder at backgrounds at times, our particular rocky road. Yet, we can have confidence, God is Master of what’s gone before, as well as what is ahead. In my backstory, I see a heavenly Father’s plan for me. Father’s Day reminds us of our real Father whose Sovereignty is complete, perfect and marvelously higher than we can comprehend.
I have been privileged to have had a earthly father who pointed me to my heavenly One. I enjoy remembering him in his chair with the Bible open on his lap. I am happy thinking of his strong baritone singing hymns. His memory walks with me through wheat fields, and stops at Dairy Queens for a cone. I see him in remembrances and am grateful.
Background’s fabric, is an offering, not a definition.
Our heavenly Father’s hand has directed our backstories, and His love is woven into its tapestry. Transforming arms invite us to step inside and trust He knows best.
Katherine Pasour
I am so thankful we are a new creation in Christ. My old self was not a good person. Saul/Paul’s story shows us what a drastic turn around is made when we recognize Jesus as our Savior and commit our lives to Him. Thank you, Sylvia, for your inspiring message.
Sylvia schroeder
Thank you Katherine. God’s greatest miracles transform our souls. So grateful for your sweet encouragements!
Nancy E. Head
I look back on my youth and feel like so much of it happened to someone else. That’s because it did. Thanks for this wisdom, Sylvia. God bless!
Sylvia schroeder
So grateful for God’s transforming power! A new creation is a wonderful reality! Thanks Nancy!
J.D. Wininger
For me, the amazing part is that “my new creation” was the second step in God making me into who He made me to be. While still very much a work in progress, I too pray that I point my children, grandchildren, and all those who God has allowed me to be placed into their lives, to Him. Happy Father’s Day Mr. Phil.
Sylvia Schroeder
Thanks J.D. I am most definitely still a work in progress too! I always love the wisdom and thought you bring in your comments. It is a good thing to still be growing!
Annie Yorty
Your words are a wonderful reminder of the truth found in Romans 8:28. “And we know that God causes everything to work together[a] for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” Thank you!
Sylvia Schroeder
Annie, I’m so glad you brought that verse into the conversation. I’d not actually thought of the connection, but there certainly is one. What an amazing truth that reminds us again how great is our God! Thank you!
Yvonne Morgan
Thank you Sylvia for sharing. I’m so thankful that I’m a new creation in Christ and I get a chance each day to begin again.
Sylvia Schroeder
I love that thought, Yvonne. In Christ, each day I get a chance to begin again. It’s easy for me to drag yesterday into today. Your thought is an encouragement to me this morning. Thank you for sharing it!
Lisa Robbins
Thanks for sharing your Father’s Day insight with focus on our Heavenly Father. And amen to “Background’s fabric, is an offering, not a definition.” Truth wrapped up in a memorable statement makes a lasting impact.
Sylvia Schroeder
Thank you for visiting my blog Lisa! I appreciate your comments. Father’s Day was a good day to recognize what a loving heavenly Father I have!
Jeannie Waters
Sylvia, I enjoyed this beautiful post which makes us thankful for God’s love. Thank you for this reminder: “Our heavenly Father’s hand has directed our backstories, and His love is woven into its tapestry. Transforming arms invite us to step inside and trust He knows best.”
Sylvia Schroeder
Thank you so much Jeannie. There is freedom in knowing God weaves His love throughout our lives. I appreciate you taking the time to read and weigh in.