II Corinthians 5:17 ” Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come.”

The other Sunday I was able to hear a dear friend preach and part of his text came from this Scripture.  He asked if we see Jesus when we look in the mirror…or do we just see our old self.  That’s because, if Christ is dwelling inside us, we should be growing more and more in His image everyday…not remaining stagnant.  He called it a new man season…a time to look at that reflection in the mirror and change what needs changing.  But on the other hand, it’s also very easy to get comfortable and nonchalant with our Christian walk and  lose sight of Jesus in that mirror altogether.

In Christ Jesus…You are a citizen of Heaven.

In this upwardly mobile society, we move about a lot.  Sometimes out of necessity, sometimes for pleasure…and there’s times we find ourselves in places that are different, strange, and unlike what we’re accustomed to…and we feel uncomfortable…longing for our home.  As Believers, we’re foreigners  here on Earth…for our citizenship is in Heaven. (Phil. 3:20)  It’s no wonder then that we feel conflicted, uneasy and awkward…we’re just visitors here!

In Christ Jesus…You are a loved Child of God.

When you receive Jesus into your heart and believe that He died for your sins, you are adopted into the family of God.  As Romans 8:16-17 states, “You have received the Spirit of sonship.”   Regardless of whether you had both parents, only one parent, or no parents at all when you were growing up…you have been adopted into God’s family…and in doing so,  have been chosen and legally named as a joint heir with Jesus.