At Bright Hope we talk a lot about the concept of “mutual transformation.” The phrase itself may sound a little like insider lingo, but the concept is really quite straightforward and practical. Plainly stated, mutual transformation means that we help each other grow.
Although I’ve only been employed by Bright Hope for about six months, the process of mutual transformation is underway in me. Over time, as I give my time and resources working on behalf of the extreme poor, my way of thinking and my practice of giving have both been altered. My heart has become more compassionate and zealous for those living in extreme need. As I work to make a difference in the lives of the poor, I am being changed in the process.
Not too long ago, we were in fervent prayer for the people of Bolivia. You probably remember hearing about the legislation that had been passed that could dramatically limit Christians’ freedoms to share the Gospel. Praise the Lord, as Christians gathered and prayed in protest of these new laws, the Bolivian president moved to overturn the legislation!
So what does all this have to do with mutual transformation? Well, as I followed the situation in Bolivia, did what I could from my position to help, prayed for those believers, and dedicated my thoughts and concern for them, it transformed the way that I think, the way I live, and it spurred me on to make the most of the opportunities given to me.
The possibility of what could have become a reality for these Christians in Bolivia really got me thinking. In the United States, we enjoy an abundance of freedoms and privileges. It made me wonder, “What am I doing today to take advantage of the freedoms available to me? Am I making the most of every day, and of every opportunity?” My neighbor who needs Christ today is not going to need Him any less tomorrow, so why put off sharing the Good News?
Fellow believers, there is a sense of urgency to spread the Gospel. My friends, neighbors and even the strangers I make small talk with all need to hear the saving message of the Gospel. Today I have religious freedom on my side. There are no guarantees for tomorrow.
We thank the Lord for answering the prayer of His people for Bolivia, yet we know that it is not unrealistic to believe that there may be a day when it is illegal to share our faith right here in the United States. So I ask, why wait? Never before has Ephesians 5:15-16 felt so relevant, “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”
I am in the process of mutual transformation, and we know it’s also happening for others. Do you have a story about how you were changed as a result of your partnership with Bright Hope? If so, we’d love to hear it! Write to us at Info@brighthope.org and tell us what mutual transformation looks like in your life.
