Since the beginning of time, we have laid emphasis on outward appearances. Do not get me wrong, I love dressing up. Hair, makeup, outfit, shoes, matching accessories are an integral part of my routine. But how will I handle aging, wrinkling, sagging and perishing? So many of my lovely friends gave into Botox, should I as well? I stand firm on a nope, not happening. (Please read this back to me if I stumble).
’16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, 18 while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.’
-2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Though the outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. Is that not the most amazing thought? Christ in us, working, transforming and renewing us. I read that as, the more we age, the more perfect we become in Christ. Transformation is a gift for Christians.
I have two things that come to mind on this topic
- Looking back and seeing what transformation Jesus brought in my life.
- Being propelled by the transformation, wanting more and fighting the flesh to submit to Jesus in totality
I like looking back to take an inventory of how far I have come. I like checklists and milestones. Throughout the day, I check all tasks that are completed and at the end of the day, I hope for near 99% completion. What this does for me during mid-day sugar-lows is that it acts like caffeine. Wanting more checks against the list. The other thing that helps is a year-in-review, end of the year look-back before I start planning my next year’s goals. What does this have to do with growing old? It has to do with taking an inventory of my stone-hearted ways that got miraculously changed into loving ways, thanks to our good Lord. It reminds me that He kept His promise.
‘26 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.’
-Ezekiel 36:26
Now that I am assured that Jesus is working in me, it drives a hunger inside that wants me to grow closer to Jesus and submit as best as I can. Against my flesh and worldly nature. Makes me want to spend more time in scripture and prayer. This takes time and wrinkles. No wonder the sweet old ladies at my church are Christ-like. Someday, I want a young punk to look at me and say, she is the most Christ-like old lady I have ever met, must be the work of our perfect Lord and Savior. I pray that you embrace your wrinkles with grace and walk away from the Botox towards our every-loving Lord.
Dear Jesus,
Your work never seems to end. You suffered while on earth and now You have to work on Your sheep to transform us. Thank You for never giving up on me even when I am pouty and fighting to hang onto the perishable. Please grant me the good sense to submit to You and enjoy the transformation that will bring You glory. Amen.