Extreme Makeover

Have you ever watched any of the extreme makeover tv shows? Sometimes it’s a house or a room, a garden, or a work space that gets the makeover, making it more functional and pretty, too. Sometimes it’s a person getting the makeover: new hairstyle, new clothing and shoes, different makeup. When the makeovers are complete — presto! Something new and better than the old. It’s the same in our spiritual worlds.

One of the first verses I memorized as a teen when I became a Christian was II Corinthians 5:17, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation: old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new” (NKJV). It thrilled me then, and still does today, the idea that the Holy Spirit is continually molding me into the image of Christ. He doesn’t give up even when I have my “blow it” moments. He forgives and we press on together because He never leaves or forsakes (Hebrews 13:5). We’re not perfect until we see Jesus face to face, but until then, the journey is taking place, the molding into Christlikeness grows sweeter each day.

A home, garden, or personal makeover gradually begins to fade. There will come a time when you need another makeover; not so in Christ. When our hearts and attitudes are for Him, then nothing fades; instead, we are stronger, filled with greater faith, know peace that passes all understanding in the most fearful of situations, and joy quietly bubbles within, reminding us with a holy hope that one day — all sorrow will pass, death will be no more, sickness is non-existent, problems are all gone. Heaven is our destiny. Oh what a day that will be!

Until then, each morning is the gift of a new day to become more like Jesus. It’s a makeover that only grows sweeter with time. We need only to keep focused on Him, meditating upon His Word and His ways, surrendering our hearts to His, full of love and perfect, will for our lives. Keep eyes on Him and bask in the joy of the journey of our Father’s holy makeover.