Ordinary Transformation

DateLine (4/5/06 – Ponce, Puerto Rico)

I like a true story. While concocted stories can be entertaining, they are mere memorials to the imagination of their creators. Now true stories have the potential to inspire.

They were an unlikely bunch, diverse as all of mankind. Phil normally set the culinary agenda for the group. To the casual acquaintance Tom seemed a little slow, but his friends knew him as the analytic one who always pressed for evidence. Matt had been committed to career, often struggling with prevailing business ethics, which in times past had been leveraged to provide him a very comfortable position. Pete was rugged and impulsive, but loyal to a fault – had rather be fishing than not. John was intimate in a masculine way, a true friend. None of them were particularly well educated, no reason to believe that they were intellectual giants. None came from a life of privilege. No one could have imagined! From this unlikely bunch came the makings of a movement that would sweep the world.

By now you may realize that I’m describing Phillip, Thomas, Matthew, and Peter, disciples of Jesus the Christ. This is where the true story bit comes in. Even critics of Christianity must admit that the transformation of the lives of the disciples of Jesus is very compelling evidence that the events that we celebrate at Easter is a true story.

From www.souldevice.org comes this statement; “Critics admit that the disciples at least thought they saw the risen Jesus - but what if they made it up? Neither lies nor hallucinations can transform people the way the resurrection did. First, what would they have had to gain? Christianity wasn't exactly popular and it certainly did not make them any money! Second, liars do not make good martyrs. There is no better explanation than the resurrection for the disciple’s willingness to die horrible deaths for their faith. Yes, lots of people die for lies that they think are true, but no one dies for what they know is untrue.”

The post-resurrection disciples had been transformed into unparalleled teachers, orators, and religious apologists, and yes martyrs. Thousands responded to their appeal to follow Jesus, millions through the ages. Perhaps no other twelve men in the history of mankind have had such impact. As we get ready to celebrate Easter, let the season remind you of the power that has potential to transform your own life. Now that will be no ordinary transformation.