Behold, God Is Doing a New Thing!
“See, I am making all things new.” – Revelation 21:5 (NRSV)
God is a God of new beginnings. In Revelation 21:1-6, the apostle John shares a powerful vision of a new heaven and a new earth. It's a breathtaking picture of hope, healing, and wholeness—a future where God dwells with us, wipes every tear from our eyes, and makes all things new. This vision is not only a promise for the end of time—it’s also a calling for the church today.
Our world is longing for something new. People are searching for authentic love, deep purpose, and real community. In the midst of change, uncertainty, and pain, God is calling the Church—not just globally, but our church—to be part of His renewing work right now.
A New Vision for a New Season
The United Methodist Church is stepping boldly into this vision with a renewed purpose:
“The United Methodist Church forms disciples of Jesus Christ who, empowered by the Holy Spirit, love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously in local communities and worldwide connections.”
This vision echoes Revelation 21. God is making all things new—not just someday in heaven, but starting now in us. We’re invited to be part of a Spirit-led movement that brings new life to our neighborhoods, our church, and our world.
But how do we join God in this new work? How do we live into this vision together?
Three Ways Church Members Can Help Make “All Things New”
1. Love Boldly – Build Relationships that Reflect Christ
God’s renewing work begins with love. Bold love means moving beyond comfort zones to build relationships—with neighbors, with newcomers, and even with those we disagree with. It means embodying Christ’s compassion in a world that often feels divided and cold.
Try This: Invite someone new to coffee or lunch… then invite them to church with you. Volunteer in a ministry that connects with the community. Ask God to help you love those who are hardest to love.
2. Serve Joyfully – Embrace a Spirit of Generosity
In a new heaven and new earth, suffering and need are no more. As followers of Christ, we’re called to be part of that transformation now. Serving joyfully means offering our time, talents, and resources with glad hearts—not out of obligation, but out of gratitude.
Try This: Say “yes” to one new way of serving this month—whether it’s volunteering with our children and youth, helping with worship, supporting missions, or simply showing up to one of our many ministries.
3. Lead Courageously – Step Into God’s Calling
Making things new requires courageous leadership—not just from pastors or staff, but from every disciple. It means being willing to try new things, speak truth with love, and follow the Spirit even when the path is unfamiliar.
Try This: Pray about one way you can lead—maybe by starting a new ministry, sharing your faith story, or stepping into a role you’ve been hesitant to try. Trust that the Holy Spirit equips those He calls.
God Is Not Finished with Us
Revelation 21 reminds us that God is still writing the story—and we get to be part of it. Our church has a role to play in God’s renewing work. He is making all things new—not by magic, but through people like you and me, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Let’s say yes to this new vision. Let’s become the kind of church where love is bold, service is joyful, and leadership is courageous.
Because the world is waiting—and God is already at work.
What’s one step you can take this week to be part of God’s new thing? Share it with a friend or in the comments below. Let’s encourage one another as we walk this new path together.
In God’s grip,
Pastor Chuck Church
