Do you see a new creation when you look around?

I'm writing these devotions in summer while sharing the sweltering second floor of our inner-city church with a remarkable group of Christians. Twenty young men from our community, ages 14 to 24, with four Young Life leaders, are learning worship, atonement, and reconciliation (WAR) six hours a day, all week. Some are here on their own; some were brought by a parent; some were encouraged by a probation officer.

Alvin, the visionary leader of this school, looks at our old community and sees amazing things. He sees kids who want a chance to serve God; young people who want better things to do than hang out on the streets; parents who'd like a hand in giving their children positive things to do during summer vacation; churches that want to help; neighbors who love the neighborhood; and places of peace and beauty. Alvin's view contrasts with that of others who see only kids looking for trouble; absent, negligent parents; violence; and neighbors with a low view of themselves and their community.

Alvin is a new creation in Christ, and he is part of the whole new creation God is building. Alvin shares God's vision of parents, kids, and neighborhoods becoming new in Christ. And he's working to fulfill that vision. The crucified and risen Lord is at work!