Renewed by Grace: Advent’s Promise Fulfilled & Identity Sealed

As Advent draws to a close and Christmas morning approaches, we are reminded of God’s breathtaking promise: “Behold, I am making all things new” (Revelation 21:5). Advent is not only about remembering Christ’s first coming, but also about anticipating His return—when every shadow will vanish, every tear will be wiped away, and every broken thing will be restored.

This is the heartbeat of our identity in Christ: we are people being made new. Paul writes in Titus 3:5, “He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit.” We are not left to fix ourselves. Renewal is the work of God’s Spirit in us, shaping us more and more into the image of Christ.

Advent reminds us that this renewal is both already and not yet. Already, we are forgiven, beloved, and secure in Christ. Already, we are clothed in His righteousness and filled with His Spirit. But not yet are we fully perfected. Not yet has all sin, sorrow, and suffering been erased. And so, we live in hope, longing for the day when the renewal begun in us will be completed in glory.

As Christmas dawns, we celebrate that God Himself came near in the person of Christ. But we also lift our eyes to the horizon, waiting with joy for His return. Until that day, our identity is sealed: we are God’s children, renewed by His grace, and destined for His glory.

As you reflect this week, consider these questions:

• Where have you seen God renewing you by His Spirit this Advent season?

• How does the promise of final renewal encourage you to persevere in faith?

• What does it mean for you to carry this identity—beloved, renewed, and secure—into the new year?

Prayer for the Week:
Lord Jesus, thank You that You are making all things new. Thank You for beginning Your work of renewal in me and sealing my identity as Your child. Give me hope as I wait for the day when You return and complete what You have started. This Christmas, help me rest in the joy of Your presence and the certainty of Your promises. Amen.

If you want to go deeper with us, pick up your copy of Not Overcome for Advent!