1 Peter 2:4-5

New International Version

As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him— you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ … But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

For Meditation

Brothers Drew and Jonathan Scott work together to help people renovate their homes on the US television show, Property Brothers. They turn old, dull houses into bright, welcoming spaces. They buy a house, redesign it, and remove much of what was there before. After a full renovation, the results often amaze the homeowners, making it hard for them to say no to the new plans. The show focuses on adding color and light to make homes feel more inviting. As one writer said about another renovation show, Color Splash, they encourage viewers to Step out of the beige box and step into a life with color!

A Christian’s life is a lot like a renovation show. When God saves us (Eph. 2:8-9), He takes ownership of our lives, just like a new homeowner (1 Cor. 6 :19-20). We become new in Christ. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! (2 Cor. 5:17). The Holy Spirit, like a skilled contractor, moves in and starts working in us (Eph. 1:13). Even though we are new creations, we still have parts of our old selves that need fixing. God starts the redesign, and the Holy Spirit rebuilds us from the inside out. Unlike TV shows where the owners leave, we stay and work with the Holy Spirit, taking part in our own transformation.

This rebuilding process, much like a full home makeover, continues throughout our lives. The Holy Spirit brings light into every part of us, showing what no longer fits our new life (Eph. 5:13). Old ways and habits need to go (Gal. 5:19-21; Eph. 5:3-7; Col. 3:5-9). When we work with the Spirit, He changes our minds, removes old patterns, and shapes us to follow God’s will (Rom. 12:2). He gives us a new, colorful way of living (Gal. 5:22-23; Eph. 5:19-6:9; Col. 3:12-4:1). As this renovation goes on, we become more like Christ (Eph. 4:12-13), shining His light and drawing others to the beauty of our changed lives (1 Pt. 2:9; 2 Cor. 2:14-15).

As children of light, let’s welcome God’s tools, like His chisel, hammer, and paintbrush, to change and brighten our lives (Eph. 2:10), just as a TV renovation adds fresh energy to brighten a home. This process can be challenging and even uncomfortable, as we face old habits or hurts that take time to change. But God is patient with us and never gives up; He keeps working, even when progress feels slow. Let’s work with our divine Homeowner to remake our lives and bring in color where there was dullness. It’s time to step out of the beige box and into a life with color to declare God’s glory through Christ Jesus!

Pray with Me

Thank you, Lord, for your transforming work on me by your Spirit through your word. I am your workmanship in Christ Jesus, and I pray for the strength to endure the pain and discomfort of this inner work that manifests externally to reveal your glory in me. In Your name, Lord Jesus, amen.  

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