I have always found myself fascinated with old, abandoned mansions. In particular from the Victorian era. It seems sad to see those once beautiful, magnificent homes left desolate, in a state of decay. It would be a process, but how awesome would it be to restore one of those old mansions. To once again gaze through its windows and see life. As I considered restoration another process grasped me. How God works His restoration process on us, as we receive the light of Christ in our dark souls. Through sanctification, we are transformed into the created beings He intended us to be. Beginning with the foundation of Jesus Christ, He then works step by step turning us into something beautiful, magnificent. We are passed from death to life.

“In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation.”

1 Peter 5:10 (NLT)

Restoration of Life, A Poem by Steve Stone

Sin entered the garden; death came as man lost his way.

An old abandoned mansion sits vacant, in a state of decay.

Once beautiful white columns have discolorations of gray.

Red bricks now partially veiled by green, creeping vines.

An era of time adrift in memories, leaving regal designs.

Dark windows disclose the remnants of the life gone by.

Once so majestic now lifeless, could restoration apply?

Restoration of life starts with a foundation firm and true.

The restoration of a man’s soul must begin this way too.

The true life’s foundation is Jesus, the Lord and Savior.

Without firm foundation the walls and floors will waver.

A new roof comes next, and dark rooms are refurbished.

A man’s heart must desire the light of Christ to flourish.

Broken-down ceilings and floors will need much repair.

The dark chambers of the soul need the power of prayer.

The master carpenter has the blueprint, he is in control.

So too with man, as sanctification refurbishes the soul.

Restoration came with a huge cost, an incredible price.

Father God gave His only Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Day by day, and into years a restoration can take time.

The Holy Spirit will guide you in God’s perfect design.

Stand before the Lord one day clothed in bright white.

A vacant mansion now restored; it is a wonderful site.

How beautiful the soul released from evil’s sedation.

A majestic mansion is alive after complete renovation.

The restoration of life, a step-by-step transformation.

-Steve Stone