Information or transformation?
That's the key question isn't it? I was presented with this question on Sunday morning by my minister. He asked why do we read the Bible? For information or knowledge? Or for life change and spiritual transformation?
It got me thinking further than spiritual disciplines like reading the Bible. Specifically it got me thinking about our recent mission trip to Latvia. This year was my 6th summer back in Latvia working with kids and youth. But this got me thinking, why am I always going back to Latvia?Every year we do a camp in July and tell the kids stories from the Bible, share our testimonies with them and have a whole lot of fun together. But does it stop here with information? Is our job done when we have informed them about God and His love? I don't think so... The job is only complete when there is genuine transformation in these individuals lives.
Some of the kids are like family to me, and I've literally saw them growing up before my eyes. I love them! But the reasons for all my trips to Latvia has been to spread the Good News that transforms the hearts and lives of those that I meet. If no change happens, then all I have is good memories. I will have failed if there is no change, no transformation.
Of course it's never us that make the change. It's always the Holy Spirit that truly transforms. But it's about motives, reasons and purpose. I want to put this question to you - information or transformation?
Do you read the bible for information or to be transformed? Do you do mission to transform lives? Do you follow Jesus to have your life transformed? Think about why you do things, and always look to further God's kingdom with a purpose to transform!
"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will."
- Romans 12 v 2
