A weight-loss journey often includes the notorious “before and after” picture. One image captures where a person began while the other celebrates the progress that has been made. Side by side, they narrate a motivational story.
As one comedian joked when asked if he wanted to go on a diet, “No, I’m still working on my before picture.”
While that may make us smile, it also reminds us of a deeper spiritual reality.
When Jesus invites us to follow Him, He calls us to a before-and-after picture. Who we are becoming in Christ should look noticeably different than who we were before we surrendered to Him.
Jesus said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23). Following Christ is not a one-time decision but a daily concession.
Paul reminds believers in Rome that through baptism we are raised to walk in “newness of life” (Romans 6:4). God does not simply forgive our past. He redeems our present and future.
Paul paints an even clearer picture in his letter to the Colossians: “Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature… You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things…” (Colossians 3:5–8, NIV) Notice the contrast: “You used to…” and “But now…” The Christian life is marked by transformation.
Jesus never calls us simply to improve ourselves. He calls us to die and become new creations (2 Corinthians 5: 17). He is not interested in spiritual maintenance but complete overhaul. Through His grace, He reshapes who we are.
The makeover may not happen as quickly as we would like, but faithful obedience is evidence that God is still at work.
May your “before” reflect the beauty of what Christ can do and may your “after” point to the One who makes all things new. |
