Years ago Charlotte and I picked up an old Chevrolet van. The engine and transmission were sound but that was about all that could be said for it. It had been quite abused by its former owner and looked shabby at best. Nevertheless we had a dream for that van. We saw it quite differently than it was. We saw it as an excellent outfit for carrying our family on vacations. I brought the old thing into the garage, put it up on blocks and began to dream, plan, and acquire materials for the work.
In the space of about six months we had totally redone that van, inside and out. Inside it had all new seats, carpet and upholstery, we even insulated it against those cold Wisconsin winters. Outside it sported a new two tone-paint job, new tires, and some very lovely windows. It was quiet, comfortable and attractive. That van served us well for years and provided for many wonderful family times together.
We picked up that van, not because of what it was but rather because of what it could be. In the same way God saves sinners today, not because of what they are but because of what they can become. He doesn't save a sinner to leave him or her in their sin, but to deliver them from both its power and its consequences and create a new being in righteousness and holiness.
2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. (KJV)
Ephesians 2:8-10
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. (KJV)
