As I write this, we are in the middle of a house renovation. About half of our house is being remodelled to make the house more livable and more contemporary.

The first thing that happened was that, after we moved all our possessions out of that part of the house, the workers got in, cut off the power and then proceeded to knock down walls that were no longer needed, pull down the ceilings, and lift up the worn out floor coverings.

They then installed new beams into the roof cavity to make sure that the removal of structural walls would not cause the roof to fall in. New internal walls had to be constructed, the electrical system rewired and an air conditioner put into the roof. The walls and ceilings have been re-sheeted, and door trims replaced. In coming weeks the power supply will be upgraded, a new kitchen will be installed, and everything will be painted.

The workers have made a big mess, but in a few weeks we will effectively have a new house. The cost will be enormous, but we have enough money put aside to cover it all.

When you ask Jesus to take control of your life, He starts by transforming your heart. The old stuff has to be taken out, because it is harmful to you. Attitudes, addictions and wrong behaviour patterns have to change, hurts need to be healed and consequences for our actions recognised.

In the Bible, God promises to give us a new heart. “And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart.”

Christianity is not a collection of rules in which our behaviour is modified from the outside. No, our relationship with God leads to Him cleaning out our old heart and giving us a new heart.

It is messy at times and it seems to take forever while you are going through it. You don’t have to worry about the price because it has already been paid for.

Why don’t you ask Jesus to come and give you a heart renovation?