Transformation
The possibility of transformation is the essence of hope. Psychologist Aaron Beck says that the single belief most toxic to a relationship, be it a marriage or a friendship, is the belief that the other person cannot change. John Ortberg, in his book The Life You’ve Always Wanted, says that the primary goal of spiritual life is human transformation.
Paulette and I are truly grateful for the pastoral appreciation that was expressed last Sunday for Greg, Joyce, and myself. The kind words and the generous gifts were humbling. But most meaningful for us were the comments in the thank you cards we received. So many spoke of the spiritual growth they have experienced under the ministry of the Word and the shepherding. In their own words, people were saying that transformation had happened in their lives. That is a wonderful thing, and it warms my heart more than I can tell you.
But as good as that is, it’s not enough. We want more and more of that. It is for that reason that Pastor Greg and the staff and the elders will be leading our church in a shift to a more intentional and strategic discipleship structure. Twelve of us will be traveling to Idaho next week to learn from a church that is doing an excellent job of making disciples who are being transformed into the likeness of Jesus. This shift will not be sudden or dramatic. Rather, I expect to see a gradual but deliberate reorientation of our leadership, our ministries, and our church culture until personal transformation into Christ-likeness is the norm for everyone in our church family.
And how about you? How have you been transformed since Jesus came into your life? Do you see more of his character in you now than when you first trusted him? Some men I met with this week asked the same question in a different way and so I ask you, "What would your life be like today if Jesus had not brought you to himself?"