The James Webb Space Telescope, launched in December 2021, was designed to observe the universe in infrared with unprecedented resolution. Equipped with advanced instruments, it allows us to see celestial objects and galaxies that previous telescopes could never detect. Through its lens, we’ve witnessed the vastness of the cosmos and the discovery of massive galaxies that challenge previous theories about the age and formation of the universe.

As we marvel at these breathtaking images, we are reminded of the power of God through the lens of Scripture. Psalm 148:5 declares, “Let them praise the name of the Lord, for He commanded and they (the heavens) were created,” and Psalm 33:6,9 affirms, “By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, For He spoke, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast.” These verses highlight the divine authority by which the heavens came into being. Hebrews 11:3 echoes this truth: “By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command.” (NET)

Indeed, as David wrote in Psalm 19:1, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands.” The majesty of space, as revealed by the James Webb Telescope, points to the greatness of the Creator. Yet, as awe-inspiring as the universe is, there is an even more profound work of creation happening—not among the stars, but within us.

The most remarkable creation of God is the transformation of the human heart by His Spirit. The same power that brought the cosmos into existence is now at work in you. Scripture teaches that God is forming a new creation—a people whose hearts are being renewed or recreated.

This transformation is described in Ezekiel 36:26: “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you.” The stony heart of our natural, self-centered condition (Zech. 7:12; Rom. 8:7) is being replaced with a heart that reflects God's own character and love (Jer. 31:33). Paul called this miracle the "new creation" in Christ (2 Cor. 5:17).

Romans 12:2 urges us not to conform to this world, but to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” The Greek word for “renewing” is anakainósis, which means a complete renovation or transformation—a making new. It appears again in Titus 3:5, which beautifully summarizes this process:

“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing (anakainósis) of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior.” (Titus 3:5–6, NKJV)

God is not only the Creator of the universe—He is the Re-Creator of the human heart. His Spirit is at work, renovating our minds and hearts, shaping us into the image of Christ. (2 Cor. 3:18) This transformation is not superficial; it is a complete renewal to reflect God's character of righteousness and love. 

Paul encouraged Timothy to "stir up the gift of God" (2 Tim. 1:6) because it is through the Holy Spirit that this new creation becomes possible. The power of God’s Spirit that formed galaxies is now forming godly character within us, providing the power to grow to “the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ” (Eph. 4:13).

The creation of a godly family—each member bearing Godly character for eternity—is God's most incredible and enduring work. While the universe declares God’s glory, it is His work in us that truly reveals the depths of His love and purpose for you.  

As we approach the Holy Day of Pentecost, let us reflect deeply on and value the incredible gift of God’s Spirit. May we become what Paul described—living epistles of Christ—whose lives are written not with ink, but by the Spirit of the living God. As he wrote:

“Clearly you are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us, written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart.” (2 Corinthians 3:3)

This Sabbath may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:13)