Eternal Shadows and New Creation: A Biblical Perspective on Time and Transformation (05/31/'24) -Viewpoint

Eternal Shadows and New Creation: A Biblical Perspective on Time and Transformation In a biblical sense, the statement "Embracing the Shadows: Understanding Our Journey Forward" reflects the interplay between our past experiences, our present identity, and our future hope. The concept of shadows from the past shaping our present aligns with several biblical themes about memory, redemption, and new creation. Here are some relevant Bible verses and their interpretations: Memory and Redemption Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV): “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Interpretation: This verse encourages believers to not be trapped by the past but to look forward to the new things God is doing. It aligns with the idea that while shadows of the past shape us, we should focus on the new creation God is bringing about in our lives. Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV): “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Interpretation: Paul speaks about not being held back by past failures or successes but striving forward toward the future God has in store. This complements the statement by emphasizing forward movement despite the shadows of the past. New Creation 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV): “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” Interpretation: In Christ, believers are made new, transcending their past. This reflects the idea that while past experiences shape us, in Christ, we are continuously being renewed and transformed. Revelation 21:5 (NIV): “He who was seated on the throne said, ‘I am making everything new!’ Then he said, ‘Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.’” Interpretation: This vision of the new creation in Revelation speaks to the ultimate renewal of all things, where the past's shadows are overcome by God's transformative power. Eternal Perspective 2 Peter 3:8 (NIV): “But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.” Interpretation: This verse speaks to God's perspective on time, which is vastly different from human experience. It suggests that God's plans and purposes transcend our temporal understanding, which can comfort those reflecting on past shadows and future hopes. Psalm 90:4 (NIV): “A thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night.” Interpretation: This Psalm reinforces the idea that God's view of time is not limited by human constraints, emphasizing His eternal nature and sovereign plan. Collapse of Time and Space The biblical concept of time and space often transcends human understanding. In a world where these concepts collapse, past, present, and future could be seen as a single continuum within God's eternal plan. The Bible often speaks to the eternal nature of God's perspective, which can unify past experiences with future hopes. New Creation The concept of new creation in the Bible signifies a transformation that goes beyond temporal experiences. It is a spiritual renewal that begins in the present and culminates in the eschatological hope of God's kingdom. This new creation is marked by redemption, reconciliation, and the fulfillment of God's promises. Opinion on Temporal Experience The concept that "a thousand years is like a day" implies that our temporal experiences are minuscule compared to God's eternal plan. It suggests that our past, present, and future are all part of God's divine narrative, where He works through our history to bring about His purposes. In this light, embracing the shadows of the past is part of understanding and participating in God's ongoing work of new creation. Conclusion In a biblical sense, the statement reflects the understanding that our journey is shaped by our past but is ultimately directed toward the new creation God is bringing about. The collapse of time and space highlights God's eternal nature and His ability to work through all of history to fulfill His redemptive plan. Embracing our past with its shadows allows us to see how God is continually making all things new, transforming our lives and leading us forward in His eternal purpose. Pastor Steven G. Lee (May 31, 2024)