“The touch of Jesus is a transforming power. It heals hurt, forgives guilt, calms fear, inspires hope, reveals purpose and gives life.” -Rick Warren

What a great quote this is! Rick Warren succinctly states what our mission here on earth, as Christ followers is all about; TRANSFORMATION. This is how we can be assured that we are hitting the mark as we proclaim the Gospel when we see true transformation taking place day after day in the lives of those around us. At VALLEY Christian Church, for years, this is how we have defined our mission, “Transforming Our World Through Christ-Centered Relationships.” Just as Jesus invited followers to join him on a journey that would transform their lives, we believe that God still works most powerfully through Christ-centered relationships to transform human hearts and ultimately, the world.

It’s really easy to fall into the trap, as a pastor or Christian leader, to try to teach people to be “nice little Christians” and forget that the goal of the Gospel is not to make us “nice” but to make us completely new creatures; transformed in our thinking, values, priorities, perspectives and passions (2 Corinthians 5:17). As overwhelming as transformation can be as a goal (it’s actually impossible for us to accomplish on our own), the awesome thing is, God is the one who fulfills this mission through us. Transformation is how we can be confident that Christ is in our midst, doing what only He can do. When we see real transformation taking place in our lives and the lives of those around us, we know that He is working through us, and we’re not just going through the motions.

What about you? Are you experiencing transformation in your life? In the lives of those around you (family, friends, co-workers)? Maybe it’s time to set higher goals, God sized goals for your life and ministry that only God can fulfill through you.