Rebuild the inside first

In the self-titled book of Ezekiel, the Old Testament prophet writes about the transformation and renewal that occurs from being in harmony with God (Ezekiel 36:26-27). This paradigm shift is the result of a lifelong commitment to ​our Creator. After all, no one knows us better. To better visualize this relationship, let’s look at the sacraments.

For most Christians, baptism serves as the entry point to sacramental living. My baptism remains the most formative moment of my childhood, along with the remembrance thereof in Israel’s Jordan River. Even today, I vividly recall the rural church where I was baptized—especially ​its cold water. As I emerged from that frigid “grave,” my heart was warmed by the power of the Holy Spirit dwelling within. What a vivid reminder of the cleansing and transformative power of Jesus Christ! It is in this special moment that a Believer commits to pilgriming with Jesus. For many younger Christians, their parents have started them on this journey until they are able to affirm their commitment during Confirmation. Put another way, this sacrament affirms the truth that God’s ways are higher than our own—​including our very thoughts (Isaiah 55:8-9). 

While the sacrament of baptism continues to mark my initial declaration of faith, the distractions of this world can still tempt me to stray from the path of righteousness. This is why Holy Communion is so important. With regular participation in this sacrament, I find that Jesus’ redemptive grace centers and reorders my steps. I believe this is why Jesus encouraged us to do this in remembrance of Him, exemplified by the elements of bread and grape juice (1 Corinthians 11:23-25). Christians have observed this sacrament for over 2,000 years and it continues to strengthen Christian community—​preparing us for the glorious reunion with our Lord. 

When I partake in the elements, I confess my sins and reflect on the atoning gift of Jesus. Next, I remember all of our Savior’s teachings. Lately, I have found inspiration in the Sermon of the Mount’s counter-cultural message of service, forgiveness, and agape love. When I embrace the full and divine meaning behind the sacraments, my heart becomes clean and unexplainable joy springs forth. As John Wesley would say, I desire only God and the things of God.

I love that we take Holy Communion on a regular basis at Resurrection as this is a special time for us to commune with God. This spiritual discipline helps God’s grace to refine us. However, the time in-between these spiritual highs is important, too. In these moments, prayer is the bridge that keeps us on the path of righteousness (often called sanctification, or growth in grace). This leads us toward personal holiness, a predecessor to corporate holiness that can truly transform this world. It is this supernatural work of God that allows us to be salt and light, or missionally minded. 

This week, will you join me in the pursuit of greater holiness? If that seems like a daunting ask, remember that the Holy Spirit resides within us and empowers us to live a purposeful and holy life. With Jesus Christ, all things become possible (Philippians 4:13).