A Sculptor’s Hands

Kathy Keenum

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. — 2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJV

Sand flows across the beach, painting ever-changing images from the water’s edge to the dunes. The grains of sand are loose, not held together, which allows them to be blown around, at the mercy of the wind. The grains can create beautiful images or ripples across the beach to the dunes. The beach can be peaceful, chaotic, attractive, and ugly, but always different.

The Art of Transformation: From Loose Sand to Masterful Sculpture

When a sculptor works with grains of sand, a transformation occurs. The once loose sand at the mercy of the wind becomes part of something incredible. The skilled hands of the sculptor mold those grains, creating a wonderful image. What's produced is an image greater than any individual grain, crafted by the master. No longer is the sand being blown about. It’s now part of something great.

A person with a handful of loose sand

Before a person becomes a Christ follower, their life is like that grain of sand. They lack the proper focus. They can be blown or influenced by all the things of the world. Their mission isn't aligned with God's—only after what pleases them. The wind no longer blows us once Christ sculpts us into His image. We have become part of the wonderful image the master has crafted. We now have a Christ-like focus, purpose, and mission.

Transformation Through Christ: Becoming a New Creation

Paul wrote in Corinthians that we are a new creation once we follow Christ. Our old life passes away. Christ transforms us. We do not crave the things of the world, but begin to crave becoming more Christ-like. This transformation is a continual process, but the changes in our lives become evident to those around us.

Sand sculptures of people

Paul’s insights on these changes show they are not superficial but fundamental to each person.

Understanding Our Identity in Christ

1.     In Christ

a.     This refers to Christ Followers—those with a personal relationship with the Lord. Paul uses this verse to encourage believers. There is always a temptation to sin or backslide into our old nature. So, we must work on strengthening our relationship with the Lord.

2.     New Creation

a.     When we begin a relationship with Christ, we become a new person. It is a radical change. The Lord forgives our sins. We are different. This will become evident in how we act, the words we use, the things we do, even the places we go. Others will notice this change.

3.     Old has gone

a.     We are transformed from our old life to a new life centered around Christ. We are no longer the same person we were. Our old life is gone. We begin living differently, acting differently, and wanting different things. The changes are obvious to those around us.

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A woman walking on the beach at twilight

Prayer: Lord, please guide me as I walk daily in Christ. Draw close to me so I can avoid temptation. May it be evident to those around me that I have transformed my life. Direct my decisions so that they would be centered around Godly things. Please allow my life to glorify you in all I say and do. Amen.

Your Turn: Do you have a personal relationship with Christ? Has your life been changed? Does your life glorify the Lord?