God commands us to be transformed (Rom.12.1, 2). Faithful and obedient children will seek this earnestly.
In the story of the two blind men at Jericho (Matt. 20.29-34) we may observe five necessary conditions for transformation. First, we must know that we are in need of transformation, and in specific, not merely general, ways. Second, we must make the most of every opportunity to get before Jesus with our need. Third, we must not allow anything or anyone to discourage us from attaining to the transformation we seek. Fourth, we must appeal to Jesus for mercy, since none of us deserves to be made whole and transformed. Fifth, we must plead with Him for the specific need with which the Lord has burdened us. A final condition follows necessarily from these five: All who are being transformed will cling to Jesus and follow Him more closely.
The blindness of these men is analogous to the transformation God seeks for us – that we might be transformed into the image of His own dear Son, our glorious King and Lord (2 Cor. 3:12-18). Transformation is an act of God’s grace – a work of His Word and Spirit – by which He progressively restores us to a condition approaching His original design (Eccl. 7.29). But we must eagerly seek God’s transforming grace (Phil. 2.12, 13; 2 Pet. 3.18), devoting ourselves to this great work by every means and at every opportunity.
Would you be transformed into the image of Jesus Christ? If not, why not? If so, why not today?
T. M. Moore
