Be Transformed to Transform ...

After taking a break for a week to celebrate Easter and all that it means, we here at St. Francis are reminded that a true understanding and embracement of Easter brings transformation. This is a transformation of the individual and the world.

St. Paul explains how this transformation takes place for the individual, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2

In short, Paul tells us not to driven by the things that drive the secular world – things like greed, lust, and anger; but, instead, be driven by love, hope and peace. When we renew our minds and allow our motivations to those that please God, we are more easily able to ascertain God’s will for our lives and make choices that fit that will.

But, transformation does not end there. Transformation is not about the individual … it is about the world.

Christian artist and composer, Michael W. Smith, once said, “Transformation in the world happens when people are healed and start investing in other people.” Which is exactly what transformation is about.

When we as individuals allow our minds to be healed of worldly thinking, we are then able to invest in others, helping them heal and thereby helping to transform the world.

For these reasons, we teach our students here at St. Francis that their faith calls them to be transformed in order to transform the world. That is the real mission in life . . .