When the Apostle Paul wrote, "if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new" (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV), he explained the essence of the Christian transformation. This truth shows the change that happens when someone surrenders to Jesus Christ. Just like clay in the hands of a master potter, we also are molded by the Divine.
The imagery of the potter and clay is deeply rooted in scripture. Jeremiah 18:4 says, "And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it." Just as a potter sees the potential in a lump of clay, not the flaws, Christ sees us. We come to Him with our sins, past, and trials, but He makes us into something beautiful and meaningful.
Being in Christ means we accept that we are the clay. It takes humility to acknowledge that we are not in control. We must surrender to the Master Potter, just as clay cannot mold itself. He shapes our imperfections, seals our cracks, and gives us purpose.
The process of being shaped by God is not easy. It can be uncomfortable and challenging. However, this discomfort should not be avoided. In the heat of life's challenges, our character and faith are strengthened. The Potter's hands are gentle yet firm, guiding us without coercing. God respects our agency, inviting us to yield to His design rather than imposing it on us.
As we remain in the Potter's hands, we see ourselves through His eyes. Our identity is not rooted in our flaws or past, but in His vision for our future. This is the new creation that Paul speaks of – a life marked by grace, continuous growth, and divine intention.
Being in Christ also means being part of a community with a unique purpose. We are shaped for service, worship, compassion, and communal harmony. We aren't created to be solitary artifacts; we're part of a grand design, testifying to the Potter's skill and love.
Being in Christ means being in the hands of the Master Potter. It's about leaving behind the old and embracing the new transformation process. It's a journey of faith, trusting the hands that fashioned the stars to fashion our hearts and lives. As we yield to His craftsmanship, we find our true purpose and calling, pouring out His love into the world. We remain pliable, responsive to His touch, and ever in awe of the work He accomplishes in and through us. Amen.
