New Being

  In Galatians 6:15 Paul writes, "For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation." Paul appears to be speaking directly into the social, political, religious, and secular constructs of his day. The message is clear, none of it matters, but only a new creation. Paul suggests that we should not concern ourselves over Christian religion, the state of our churches, about membership and doctrines, institutions and ministers, sermons and sacraments. All of it is circumcision; and everything else in this world is uncircumcision. Paul says that both are nothing, of no importance, if the ultimate question is asked, the question of a new creation. 

   Paul Tillich suggests, "The New Being is not something that simply takes the place of the Old Being. But it is a renewal of the Old which has been corrupted, distorted, split and almost destroyed. But not wholly destroyed. Salvation does not destroy creation; but it transforms the Old Creation into a new one" (The New Being p20). Reconciliation is the process of the old becoming new. Are we participating in it? The message of Christianity is not Christianity, but a new creation. We are the privileged sons and daughters of Christ who have been invited into this life. Accept it, enter into it, let it grasp you.