Who are we really? Deep down, who are we? Can we change? I was watching the T.V. show Revolution – which tells the story of a world which loses all power. There are no phones, no lights, no motor cars (5 points to the first person who recognizes the cultural reference), no power at all. This causes the governments to fall and small militias to form. In one episode we meet Jim Hudson, a former militia member, who was trying for a new life. He changed his name, found love, and a quiet place to live. But when militia member turned renegade turned rebel Miles Matheson found him, Jim was forced to return to his killing self. This suggests the question can we really change who we are?
Simon Peter was a man who changed. During his time with Jesus, he was brave, yet sometimes fearful. He was sure of Jesus’ identity (“you are the messiah”), yet denied Jesus’ destiny. He promised Jesus he would stand by him, yet denied him three times after Jesus’ arrest. But Peter changed. After the gospels, comes the book of Acts. And in the second chapter of Acts, the Holy Spirit comes upon the people and Peter becomes a totally different man. He is filled with God’s power. He is an eloquent speaker, confident in his mission. He becomes the leader of the new church.
So can we change? Can we truly change who we are? Not by ourselves. We cannot change ourselves by ourselves, but God can certainly change us. When we allow God to enter our lives, we will be changed. Will we slip up once in awhile? Of course, but the more we trust God, the more we allow God to lead us, the more we will change. When we study God’s word, participate in worship, and spend time in prayer, God will change us more into the likeness of Christ. And that is a power we can tap into whether the lights are on or not!
Thin Places 