Jesus24365 Weekly #13 | Art of Grace #5: The New Creation – Embracing Renewal in Christ | Jesus24365 Ministry | Sunday, December 29, 2024

Art of Grace #5: The New Creation – Embracing Renewal in Christ

Jesus24365 Weekly #13

Jesus24365 Ministry | Sunday, December 29, 2024

Dear Beloved Jesus24365 Family,

As this year’s final sunsets paint the sky, I’m reminded of how God’s renewal touches every part of our lives, even the moments that feel dark or uncertain. Whether your year has been marked by triumph or tears, one truth remains constant:

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

This isn’t just a verse—it’s an invitation to leave behind the weights of the past and step boldly into His light. It’s a reminder that the journey of faith isn’t about perfection; it’s about transformation. Wherever you find yourself—whether a seasoned believer or a thoughtful seeker—God’s promise of renewal is for you.

Through breathtaking art, soul-stirring music, and the timeless truth of Scripture, let’s explore what it means to embrace Christ’s renewal and walk confidently into the new year. Together, let’s leave the past behind and celebrate the beauty of the life He offers us in Him.

Key Verse of the Week

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”(2 Corinthians 5:17, NIV)

This verse is a declaration of hope for the weary and a rallying cry for the redeemed. In Christ, we are not merely improved—we are made entirely new. His love transforms us, His grace renews us, and His light calls us to shine in a world hungry for hope.

Reflecting on Renewal Through Art and Song

The Dawn of New Life 🌅

What to See: A Cubist-style portrayal of transformation shows a figure shedding the fragments of their old self. Pieces fall away in sharp, geometric shapes as a radiant cross glows at the center, symbolizing renewal. The words “The old has gone, the new is here!” emanate from the cross, blending dynamic energy with the life-giving power of Scripture.

Connecting Song:🎶

"Glorious Day" by Casting Crowns

"You called my name, and I ran out of that grave,

Out of the darkness into Your glorious day."

This triumphant anthem captures the essence of spiritual rebirth, inviting us to leave behind the darkness of the past and step into the glorious light of Christ’s love.

Reflection: What part of your old self is God calling you to let go of? Imagine placing it at the foot of the cross. Pray for His light to break through and bring renewal.

Christ Breaking Through 🌈

What to See: A vibrant and abstract image of Christ breaking through a dark, angular background. His figure is formed from colorful, interlocking geometric shapes, symbolizing the renewal of life in Him. Along the edges, “2 Corinthians 5:17” is boldly displayed, grounding the image in the promise of transformation.

Connecting Song:🎶

"Praise You in This Storm" by Casting Crowns"

"And I'll praise You in this storm,

And I will lift my hands,

That You are who You are,

No matter where I am."

This song reminds us that even in our darkest moments, Christ’s light breaks through, offering hope and strength.

Reflection: Where has Christ’s light broken through the storms of your life? How can you reflect His renewal in the lives of others? Write down one way you can shine His light this week.

The Earth Renewed 🌍

What to See: An abstract Earth in Cubist style, with pieces of the old world falling away to reveal a glowing new creation at its core. Radiant light streams from the center, symbolizing how Christ’s renewal transforms individuals and the world itself.

Connecting Song:🎶

"If We Are the Body" by Casting Crowns

"But if we are the body,

Why aren't His arms reaching?

Why aren't His hands healing?

Why aren't His words teaching?"

This song challenges us to live as Christ’s hands and feet, bringing His renewal to the world around us.

Reflection: How can your life reflect the renewal Christ brings to the world? Commit to one act of kindness or love this week that will shine His light in your community.

Timeless Masterpieces of Renewal

"The Resurrection" by Piero della Francesca

Theme: Christ’s resurrection symbolizes the ultimate renewal for believers. This masterpiece depicts Christ stepping triumphantly from the tomb, victorious over sin and death. It’s a powerful visual reminder of the transformation from death to life, perfectly reflecting 2 Corinthians 5:17.

"The Conversion of Saint Paul" by Caravaggio

Theme: Transformation through an encounter with Christ. This dramatic painting portrays Paul’s moment of conversion, where his old life falls away, and he becomes a new creation in Christ. The intense lighting and emotion capture the radical transformation that God’s grace brings.

"Transfiguration of Jesus" by Raphael

Theme: Christ’s divine glory transforms us. This radiant depiction of Christ reminds us of the divine power that renews us as we are called to reflect His glory and live as new creations.

Christian Album of the Week: Glorious Day: Hymns of Faith by Casting Crowns 🎶

Why It Fits:

This album is a celebration of redemption and renewal, mirroring the transformative promise of 2 Corinthians 5:17.

The lyrics throughout the album reflect the journey from brokenness to renewal, echoing the promise of being made new in Him. Tracks like "I Surrender All" emphasize the surrender required to let go of the old self, while "Glorious Day" captures the joy of stepping into the light of Christ. The blend of timeless hymns and contemporary worship reinforces the enduring truth of God’s promise—renewal is both ancient and ever-present.

What’s Coming Next

Wednesday: Spiritual Nourishment #5 – Finding Strength in Psalms

Explore four Psalms that echo 2 Corinthians 5:17, offering practical guidance for embracing renewal in Christ.

Friday: Founder’s Reflections #23 – The Gift of Renewal

Discover how the transformative power of renewal can guide us into a faith-filled New Year. Together, let’s reflect on stepping into 2025 with hope, purpose, and the light of Christ.

Comment and Share Section

Your Voice Matters!

Where has God brought renewal into your life this year? What old struggles has He transformed into new beginnings? Share your story in the comments or simply leave an "Amen" to declare His transformative work in you!

Know someone who needs encouragement? Share this reflection with them! Together, let’s spread the hope of renewal in Christ.

The Light Within

From broken shards, Your hands create,

A masterpiece renewed by grace.

The old has gone, Your light now beams,

In Christ, we walk redeemed, redeemed.

Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for making us new creations in You. Help us to release the old and walk boldly into the new life You offer. May Your light shine through us, renewing the world around us. In Your holy name, Amen.

For His Kingdom,

Jeff ❤️

P.S. Don’t miss next week’s inspiration! Subscribe below for free to receive weekly reflections and encouragement delivered straight to your inbox. Together, let’s embrace Christ’s renewal every moment, every day.