For years, my denomination's vision statement has been to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. I can recall people who asked how we thought we could really transform anything. That sounded like too bold a statement, maybe even too lofty an ideal for the modern church. I always thought it was great.
It didn't mean I had to single-handedly change the entire world. It meant God was doing work through how we all love and serve God and neighbor.
I still believe God can transform the world through us. Through my church. Your church. Really, through God's church. I want us to believe that again. That God's love can work so profoundly within us and through us that people change their minds about who God is and what the world could be.
In Acts 17, Paul and Silas continue teaching in a local synagogue. Their teaching persuaded some people to begin following them, following Jesus. As a result, a group of Jewish leaders rally a mob against Paul and Silas. When they couldn't find the pair, they settled for going after others who were associated with them, including a man named Jason. The accusation made against them is awesome in the most challenging and hopeful way.
After Jason is dragged out of his house, they say that he and others he supports have turned the world upside down. Dare I say they were accused of transforming the world? 
What those religious leaders saw as disturbing the peace was actually a part of God's kingdom breaking in. And the kingdom of God always brings change. Transformation. The gospel turns values, priorities and even power structures upside down. But always in the best way!
So, let's keep asking God to transform the world. To use the love and compassion the Lord has given to us to show the world the faithfulness of God. Let that be the work we commit to. Let that be what transforms everything.
Stay blessed...john | 
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