Transformation has always been the ultimate goal of Christianity. 

The Apostle Paul said it best.

Romans 12:2
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.

2 Cor. 3:18
And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.

In a practical sense, I believe transformation is a process that happens in one of four ways – renewal, revival, reformation, or resolve.

Renewal involves reopening the value for creative and innovative juices to flow; impacting traditional ideas.  We experience renewal when old ways of doing things are replaced with fresh, new ideas that breathe “new life” into our hearts.  In renewal we can clearly see the value of change.  We realize that we cannot keep doing the same things over and over again; expecting different results.

Revival means restoring back to life that which has died.  In revival our life is re-connected with the “power source” – the Holy Spirit.  As power is restored, we experience a newfound energy and motivation to live for Christ.  The joy of our salvation is revived.  We feel empowered to deepen our relationship with God and share our testimony with others.  In revival we learn to “live again”.

Reformation brings relevant change to misaligned concepts and outdated designs.  Reformation involves a sense of “remodeling” – a makeover in structure or style.  In reformation appearances and designs can go through radical; and often, very noticeable, radical change.  We experience a profound difference in the way we think and act.  The old has passed away; in with the new.

Resolve involves an unwavering determination that sinks deep within our souls.  Resolve means fighting through the toughest challenges; never looking back.  In resolve we “grab the bull by the horns and wrestle him to the ground”.  We don’t give up and never retreat; despite the circumstances.  Resolve may also mean blazing a new path; pioneering a new journey into uncharted territory.

I like to think of transformation as a window of opportunity that the Lord opens up to our life; bringing spiritual awakening, new revelation, and empowerment.  Here’s our chance to breathe deeply a fresh awareness of Jesus in our life.  We can also seize a divine opportunity to feel the mighty winds of the Holy Spirit breeze through our life once again.

These transformational processes may also be considered as points of entry into an exciting journey into new life – one full of lots of challenges and risk-taking.  This journey helps us "bridge the gap" between complacency and proactive change; paving the way for progress and growth.

I have, at one time or another, experienced all four of these processes.  I am a better husband, father, and worker because of these life-changing processes; or also stated, seasons in my life.  But the one that I am experiencing most right now is resolve.  This one is really hitting me hard right now in my personal and professional life.  Perhaps it is because I am much older now and have seen many things.

Whatever the costs, I want to make a profound “difference” in what I do with the rest of my life.  I am “locked and loaded”; ready for battle.  I am determined to do whatever it takes to hear those words from Jesus as he reviews my life on earth.

Think about it.  If this is happening to me right now; then just think, what could happen if other Christians within my community caught the vision and engaged transformation?  Working together we probably could make a major impact in the lives of family, friends, and co-workers throughout our entire community.

Come on Church.  What’d you say?  Let’s do it!

Last week, Greg and I had a wonderful conversation with a United Methodist pastor in our community.  He had served for over 28 years in the ministry.  Now, he was planting a new church in an old, abandoned school-house that is being renovated and transformed into a community outreach center.

District offices of the United Methodist Church, the United Way, Big Brothers/Big Sister, and others have taken up residence in this center.  I see this as a wonderful example of how church and non-profit charities can work together in impacting their communities.

Inside this building is where this new church plant is happening.  It’s very exciting to see all the new construction going on.  People from the community have come in to help with the remodel.  Businessmen are stopping by to seeing what financial needs the new church has.  It really is a remarkable work in progress.

When I think about this, I am reminded of the comment made by C. Peter Wagner at a church conference that I attended many years ago.  He said, “It is easier to birth new babies; than it is to raise the dead.”  

This new church plant is happening in the midst of sad news for the United Methodist District in our area.  They had to close the doors on five churches this past year.  A steady decline in people, resources, and enthusiasm caused their demise.

This new church plant is happening in the midst of sad news for the United Methodist District in our area. They had to close the doors on five churches this past year. A steady decline in people, resources, and enthusiasm caused their demise. Now you may be asking yourself, “Why are they planting a new church, when they are closing the doors of old churches?”  This is where Wagner’s statement really rings clear.  There are times when old ways of doing things do not work like they use to.  They become outdated, counterproductive, and simply require more maintenance, which voids much growth.

When the Church begins answering questions that no one is asking anymore, something is wrong.  The Church, according to Jesus’ original design, was to be a “light in a dark place”.  This means always “shining” and relevant; bursting with faith, hope, and love.  The Church is a community of empowerment; and at the same time, a sanctuary of rest from the labors of life.

When local churches cease to breathe new life into the heart and lives of people, it is time to seriously consider why this is happening.  We cannot afford wasting time in addressing these concerns with the same level of thinking that helped create these concerns in the first place. To do so would suggest an “insane process” - doing the same things over and over again…expecting different results.

We must prepare and position ourselves for a "paradigm shift" in awareness…attitude…and application.  For me, this refers to what Jesus was talking about in Mark 2:21-22,

After our visit with the United Methodist minister, Greg and I commented to each other on our way to the car.  If our community had more Christians like this, taking our city for Christ would be a reachable goal. 

We were truly blessed and energized by our visit with a man, whose heart burns with great passion for the Lord and His Church.  We look forward to visiting with him again.

 I talk a lot about “relational synergism” – people working together for greater purposes realized only through concerted efforts. 

My hopes are that more and more people within the Body of Christ will venture beyond “themselves” and into cooperative working relationships with others; becoming powerful instruments for ministry in the Lord’s hands.

Relational synergism helps people “connect", build relationships, and make a difference…together.  In a relational synergistic environment, people are changed and challenged.  This sets the stage for life-giving transformation that impacts people and their community.

The powerful impact of relational synergism is a rare occurrence.  Only two out of ten teams (groups) of people will experience relational synergism.  Why?  Because getting people to work together is hard work.  Most people tend to be self-focused rather than others-focused.  A “what’s in it for me” attitude has legitimacy; but if not properly balanced, it can sabotage synergy.

Synergy means “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.”  In relational synergism people must be “willing” to harness the power of their independent nature and channel its energy into an organic, progressive process of interdependence.  Common purposes and goals are much greater than individual accomplishments.

This doesn’t mean that we lose our individual identity or our personal hopes and dreams.  It simply means that I will get what I want; and probably more, if I am willing to help others get what they want as well.  This becomes a "win-win" situation for us all.  And if we can brave the oftentimes stormy process of the synergistic environment, we will venture into unimaginable results in our cooperative efforts.

Relational synergism is all about people and good relationships.  For those who wish to experience the power and potential of a synergistic environment, I encourage you to get ready for a “paradigm shift” in your life.  You may discover that relational synergism is something that you have only caught a glimpse of, but never experienced.

I strongly encourage you to venture out into deeper waters of personal experience and invite others to join you.  Once experienced, relational synergism becomes very compelling and beseeches return visits time and time again.

I would also like to recommend three books that will educate you on the value of a synergistic environment:

The Performance Factor: Unlocking the Secrets of Teamwork

By Pat MacMillan

The Wisdom of Teams: Creating the High-Performance Organization
by Jon R. Katzenback and Douglas K. Smith

Seven Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change
by Stephen R. Covey

Growth is not always about numbers.  

Just because you have more people in the pew or more dollars in the bank account doesn’t mean you are growing according to biblical standards.  Growth is about “rising to the occasion” or “reaching new heights” in relationships.

The Apostle Paul best described growth in Ephesians 4:12-13, “to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.”

In the Message, Ephes. 4:13 is translated, “until we’re all moving rhythmically and easily with each other, efficient and graceful in response to God’s Son, fully mature adults, fully developed within and without, fully alive like Christ.”

Relationships are the key factor in growth potential.  Why?  Because, it is all about people “connecting” with other people.  God wired us for relationships, which are the “avenues” for growth.  This applies to marriage, family, church, or business.  Meaningful relationships can pave the path towards change, progress, and growth.

The positive impact of relationships defines measurable growth.  Carefully ponder the above Scriptures, and you will understand how to measure growth.

Larry (one of my ministry partners) said to me the other day, “Why don’t we start an online revolution in Christian ministry?”  

Larry has been talking with ministry leaders across the U.S. about internet technology, and its potential use for worldwide ministry.  He has talked with seasoned veterans in ministry who are quite passionate about new technology. 

Most of these guys work in strategic positions in large Christian non-profit organizations.  Some are pastors; others are speakers at major conventions.  The point is that these guys recognize the needs of the Church and the apparent challenges that face leadership.

They are strong advocates of change, progress, and growth.  They are also practitioners of effective models in ministry.  They believe that an unprecedented opportunity awaits churches and ministries who are ready to embrace new technology and harness its power.

This is especially true of internet technology.  All of the ministry leaders that Larry has talked with have emphasized the importance of using the internet for reaching people for Christ.

Greg (another one of my ministry partners) was telling me the other day that he has encountered a lot of people turning to the internet, looking for fellowship and community.  Some of our research suggests that over 100 million Christians are now turning to the internet for social networking.

Do I see online community replacing face-to-face community?  Absolutely not.  But I am seeing new ways for people to connect and build relationships using the internet.  It makes a lot of sense; especially for young people who are growing up in a techno-savvy culture.

Whether we like it or not, the internet is here to stay!  So, why not take full advantage of its rapid growth, enormous popularity, and economical cost.  Let’s harness its power of communication and influence.  Let’s start an online revolution in Christian ministry that young people can rally behind and effect change in the lives of their peers.

History has proven that God has used innovative tools (like the printing press) in sparking spiritual awakening, renewal, and revival.  I believe He is now using the internet for new paradigms in ministry applications.  He is using it for prayer mobilization and evangelism.

The online revolution that I am talking about is a “back-to-the-basics” organic approach in reaching out and touching people’s lives with a message of hope – the good news about Jesus Christ.  We have the technology to do this, and quite well, through online community development.

So, let’s start an online revolution in Christian ministry.  We might even find ourselves tapping into a powerful “revolutionary tool” that God has ordained worthy and very effective for ministry usage, worldwide. 

Perhaps the internet (instead of television as previously suggested) will be the instrument in God’s hands to reach the globe for Christ and usher in His Second Coming.

Prayer Pipeline is a new way for people and prayer to "connect." 

Taking full advantage of the internet, we are building PrayerPipeline.net, the most “inclusive” prayer community on the planet.

We believe in the power of prayer in transforming people’s lives.  We also believe in the power of the internet in reaching out and touching the lives of millions of people all over the world.  Now, with so many people integrating their online world with everyday living, we wanted to provide a simple and easy way for people and prayer to “connect.”

But by no means is the Prayer Pipeline supposed to be a direct connection to God.  It’s simply designed as a connection to a “community of praying people.”  Since the beginning, the Church has and will always be a community of people who pray for each other.

For whatever reason, God has chosen us to help transform people lives and our world through prayer.  We are told in scripture that our earnest prayers will have powerful results (James 5:16).

Not only is prayer essential for our everyday health and well-being, it’s an indispensable weapon against strongholds that seek to invade our lives.  The Apostle Paul said, “Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out (Eph 6:18, MSG).”

The Prayer Pipeline gives ordinary people an extraordinary way to ask for prayer. This interactive prayer community gives people with serious needs a chance to connect with people very serious about prayer.

Anyone anywhere can take full advantage of the Prayer Pipeline. 

If you are lonely with no one to turn to for prayerful support, the Prayer Pipeline is for you.  If you are desperate to break destructive strongholds in your life, prayer ministers will be able to hear your cry and “stand in the gap” for you through intercessory prayer. 

And when your prayers are answered, you can then post the wonderful news for other people to see.  This will bring much hope and inspiration to other people lives.

Another feature of the Prayer Pipeline is its ability to network intercessors and build intercessory coalitions around the world.  Whether it’s necessary to focus on local community needs, an area-wide strategic concern, or nationwide focus, the Prayer Pipeline will send out a “call” for intercessory prayer that people everywhere can hear.

Check out the new Prayer Pipeline at www.prayerpipeline.net

According to CNN, the Military has designated MySpace, YouTube, and 11 other internet sites as “off limits” for soldiers.

This recent action comes amidst concerns by the Defense Department over security issues and technological limits.  While this action may benefit the Defense Department, it also cuts off thousands of soldiers from communicating with family and friends using MySpace.   

The Pentagon said no more using military’s computer systems for socializing and trading video.

Yes, soldiers overseas on the battlefield can still keep in touch with family and friends using email, but that’s not the same as being able to blog, journal, and share video and photos.  Using the internet for social networking is “mainstream” in the lives of young people. 

This is the norm.  Millions of young people are integrating their online world into everyday living.  Cut off their online world, and you cut off a part of their lives.

Fortunately, there are other social networking sites available for military personnel.  We at Simon Solutions want military families to know that we are here to help!

Check Oikos out at TryOikos.com

For the last number of days I have been reminded by the Lord that each day is a new day with new opportunities. 

I like the way Petersen’s translates Matt. 6:34 in The Message, "Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes."

When I finally let these words of wisdom settle in my heart, my whole life got healthier.  My relationships improved.  My stress level went way down.  My attitude got better; and guess what?  I was much happier!

What is it about the word "change" that scares people to death?

Pick up any Christian magazine today and most of the articles have something to say about the need for change.  The problem for me is that I hear a lot of people talk about it, but see little done about it.

The truth be known, change is really good for us.  So, why be scared of something that makes us better, wiser, and more healthier?

A few years back Kim and I were at a Christian concert in Memphis.  Accompanying us was a couple who worked with us in Youth Ministry.  At the concert, Kim and I sat together in the middle while the couple sat on both sides of us. 

I guess it was a thing where guys sit together, and girls sit together.  Well, the concert got under way, and it was great!  Towards the end of the concert, the guest artist shared from his heart how love was the glue for binding relationships together.  He even sang a song about it.  

Although Kim and I were literally knocked off our feet, we rejoiced at the couple’s affirmation of love.  You see, they had been married for many years; but for whatever reasons, they had grown apart.  Nothing dramatic had happened.  Just the pressures and struggles of life, in general, had taxed their relationship. 

That night at the concert, the Holy Spirit did a remarkable work in their lives.  It was if the Lord re-opened their eyes and allowed them to see each other in a “light” that had long since gone dim.  It seemed that their love for each other was re-born.  The moment of their embrace has been etched in my memory for years.

Over the years, I have learned great lessons about love.  My mother and father were very loving parents and taught me well.  Up until I was thirteen years old, life was pretty normal; but then, life suddenly changed.  My father suddenly passed away from illness.  Drastic changes really complicated my life from then on.  Then when I was just 18 years old, another tragedy “blew me away” - the death of my mother.  It was a time in my life when I really felt "alone." 

Somehow, I made it through both incidents; but not unscathed.  Bitterness and a harden heart were the emotional scars that I wore for many years.  It wasn’t until I met Kim, my wife, did life begin to look bright again.  Kim and I were both young when we married.  A short time later, Kim gave her heart to the Lord. I didn’t. 

During that first year of Kim’s “re-birth," love seemed to pour out from her life, wide-open.  I really did not know how to handle it.  Because of her prayers and God’s loving kindness, I finally realized the value of love and turned my life over to the Lord. 

Since that time I’ve learned a lot about love.  Three honest, sincere decisions in our life will greatly enhance our ability to love and be loved. 

#1.  We must decide to allow God to perform a miracle in our life - the gift of salvation.  We must allow God time to re-establish our right relationship with Him and transform our lives according to His will.  We must become vessels that will not shatter when God pours new life, love, and the power of His Spirit into our lives. 

#2.  We must decide to let the Holy Spirit heal our innermost being of our past hurts and sorrows.  We must let God renew our minds, influence our aspirations, and improve our attitude about ourselves. 

Remember this concerning love, you can’t share that which you do not possess.  The warmth and richness of love is felt only when it flows through our lives; in other words, when the "inflow source" of lasting love is unrestricted and the "outflow faucet" is not stopped up. 

The more we become flowing "vessels" of God’s love, the more we experience the greater dimensions of love everlasting.  Remember, love flows…or it goes. 

Determine to be a fountain and not a drain.