I believe in the transforming power of the Gospel message. I have seen not only in my own life, but in so many others, the power of God at work in lives. I have seen prayers answered. I have seen reconciliations happen and forgiveness take place in places I never dreamed I would witness it occur. I know that God has the power and ability to change hearts, to answer prayers, and to call us to something deeper than ourselves.

I know this, yet at times, I am afraid of the transformation that takes place. Being in relationship with Jesus changes you. It changes your insides and your outsides. It calls you to something more. I wonder though:

I know that with transformation of the heart our daily lived experiences will change also. If I trust that God has been present and working in the transformation, why do I fear that God will not be present during the fruits of the transformation?

In Matthew 28: 19-20, we see Jesus given the instructions to go out into the world to witness to the transforming message of the Gospel, AND we see Jesus promise to be with us always.

God transforms. God sustains. God is with us always.

Where have you seen the transforming message of the Gospel in your life?
Where have you experienced God’s work in your life that caused a change of heart or transformation?
Do you trust that God will be with you through as the transformation bears fruit?
How can you deepen your trust in God?

Becky Eldredge

Becky is an Ignatian-trained spiritual director, retreat facilitator, and writer. She is the author of the Busy Lives and Restless Souls (March 2017, Loyola Press) and The Inner Chapel (April 2020, Loyola Press). She helps others create space to connect faith and everyday life through facilitating retreats and days of reflection, through writing, and through spiritual direction. With nearly twenty years of ministry experience within the Catholic Church, Becky seeks to help others discover God at work in the every day moments of people’s lives by utilizing St. Ignatius’ Spiritual Exercises and the many gifts that our Catholic faith and Ignatian Spirituality provide.