Monday, March 6th- Availability

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NRSV)

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 

In art, when we use the word “medium,” we refer to the objects that artists use (such as paint, pastels, wood, clay, plastics, instruments, pens, cameras) to convey certain messages. So consider this: when we are in Christ, we are new creations- Christ is the creating artist, and we are the mediums he uses to convey his message of love!

Most of us have enjoyed coloring in pre-printed books or on blank sheets of paper. But do you recall the sheer joy and freedom of coloring outside on the sidewalk? We had a much larger “canvas” and the freedom to expand our creativity beyond designated lines and page limits! We also relished the idea that more people would be able to see our artwork. Creating this way was an enjoyable and expansive experience.

When Jesus wants to work in us, to make us into a new creation, do we limit him? “Create in me, dear Jesus… but only so far. Please stay inside these lines and limits I have in mind for you.” We limit ourselves as the canvas when we lack the confidence to expand, instead of trusting that he is creating with perfect artistry. He well knows the capabilities of his medium. We limit Jesus the artist when we remain self-centered, wanting to control his creativity according to our plans. We limit Christ’s audience when we file his artwork away for safekeeping, instead of sharing it with the world.

Our Lenten practice for today is availability. Jesus wants to work in us, to make us new creations that will convey his message of love. Today, let’s be open and available for him to be as creative as he would like- free of our own pre-designated designs, free to create beyond our borders, free to display his artwork wherever he would like!

The crayon (or pen, or any other art item) will serve as our reminder to be open and available for Jesus to create in us- perhaps in new and surprising ways!

Creating Christ,

You DO want to make me into your beautiful creation, to convey your message of love! Help me to not interfere with your artistic and perfect work in me. Remove my limiting insecurities, remove my pre-designated plans, and remove my fears of being shared with others. Make my heart and soul available- totally- for your good and perfect work in me. Today I hope you enjoy working freely in me! Thank you. Amen.