For the next few weeks, the Life Center is going to be a little “under construction.” Most of us have been through a roof repair or replacement at home, so we know what that means: workers, noise, interruptions, weather concerns, unexpected problems—and plenty of opportunities to practice patience! I have to admit that right now I’m in that stressed-but-focused mode. I know the work needs to be done, and I’m looking forward to the day when everything is finished. But being in the middle of a project makes me think about how our lives are also a work in progress. In 2 Corinthians 5:14–6:2, Paul reminds us that the love of Christ urges us on and that, in Christ, we are a new creation. That means God is always at work in us—repairing, renewing, reshaping, and sometimes asking us to let go of things that no longer belong.
And just like a construction project, spiritual growth isn't always neat or comfortable. Sometimes there is noise and disruption. Sometimes we discover things that need attention that we hadn't noticed before. Sometimes the process takes longer than we hoped. But that doesn't mean the work isn't happening. Paul also reminds us that we are ambassadors for Christ, which means we don't have to wait until we're perfectly put together before we can be useful to God. In fact, Paul ends this passage with words that feel especially timely: “See, now is the acceptable time; see, now is the day of salvation!” Now—not when the project is finished, not when life settles down, not when we finally have everything figured out. Now is the time to pray, encourage someone, forgive, serve, love, and pay attention to what God may be doing in our lives. So, while we’re dealing with the temporary inconvenience of construction, maybe we can also take a look at the places in our own lives where God is doing some construction of His own.
Reflection: What is God wanting to repair, renew, or rebuild in you right now? What are you waiting to have “finished” before you allow God to use you? Now is the time—so what step will you take today?