When watching the television show, “Extreme Makeover” Home Edition, we witness the complete transformation of homes. Each episode usually begins with sharing the story (“testimony”) about the condition of the house and the contributions of its owner. Helping the audience understand why the house that was chosen is in need of an “extreme makeover”. After which, the existing condition of the house (flaws, inadequacies, broken areas, weaknesses, shortcomings, threats posed to the occupants, etc) is highlighted along with the restoration and renewal plan.
Next, the Producer allows the viewer to witness the demolition, rebuilding, and construction (transformation) process used to renew each home. I am always intrigued. Additionally, while the home is experiencing the extreme makeover, the homeowner goes away on vacation, submitting the house to the plans of the Builder. Confident the Builder will start the work and do whatever is necessary to complete the work he has started.
Once the “extreme makeover” is complete, the presentation of the home takes place. The show usually shows a large crowd (witnesses) standing behind a big bus awaiting the presentation of the new house. With anticipation, the crowd is very excited to witness the transformation that has taken place in the new home. In unity, they all shout, “move that bus.” Every time the bus is moved, I envision that as being similar to removing any hindrances or any obstacles that may prevent the world from witnessing the “extreme makeover” that has occurred. The Builder is always acknowledged and thanked for the work that he has done.
Likewise, we have also seen on television and/or know people in our lives that have experienced “extreme makeovers” on the outside. Often times, we marvel and look in amazement at the “before” and “after” transformation. Then ask the questions: what did you do? Or, how did it happen? Afterward, choosing either to celebrate or envy their success.
Similarly, I believe when watching the life of a believer, people are witnessing the “Extreme Spiritual Makeover” Believers Edition. As the Producer, I would propose starting each episode with a bold believer sharing his/her testimony, life before and after accepting Christ. Helping the unbeliever understand he/she too is in need of an “extreme spiritual makeover.” The Believer would then boldly share how God, Creator of the Universe (all-knowing), already knew the condition of their life (wounded, broken, unforgiving, double-minded, hateful, envious, rebellious, threat to their ordained destiny, etc.). Yet, He loved them so much that He gave His only begotten Son. Having accepted the plan of salvation, they are later seen confessing Jesus as Lord and God as the Master Builder (Maker) of their lives.
Fully submitted to the Master Builder’s (God’s) plan, the believer is being transformed from glory to glory. While the extreme spiritual makeover is underway, the believer rests and trusts in the Master Builder’s plan. Although we may witness an extreme makeover of a home take place in less than seven days. An extreme spiritual transformation happens over time (from glory to glory) depending upon the level of submission and obedience. The believer remains confident that He who has begun a good work will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:6)
Family and friends witness the demolition (tearing down of walls, strongholds), rebuilding and transformation taking place in the life of the believer. There would also be a large crowd (witnesses)of brothers and sisters in Christ, edifying and comforting the believer as he/she fights the good fight of faith. Instead of yelling, “Move that bus,” they would be yelling, “no more compromising,” “no more excuses”, “trust in God”. All the while, standing in the prayer of agreement, the Master Builder (God) will remove any hindrances or obstacles that would hinder the believer from moving forward in the destiny God has purposed for their lives.
The extreme spiritual transformation starts to become evident because the believer is no longer conformed to this world, instead, studying the Word of God, being transformed by the renewing of their mind. (Romans 12:2) The world begins to respond, “I remember him/her when they use to _________.” (Fill in the blank) The world begins to marvel and ask the believer the question: how did you do it? The believer responds with genuine humility, all glory and honor belong to the Master Builder (God).
Perhaps you can identify someone in your life that you have witnessed being transformed from glory to glory. As Ambassador’s of Christ, they reflect the glory, character, and image of God, inside and out. Choose this day to let them know that you are witnessing the extreme spiritual transformation taking place in their life. Celebrate and rejoice with them today! Ask them to share their testimony with you about how the Master Builder is transforming their life. Write to me at info@normajeanevans.com and let me know how their testimony has impacted your life.
Meditation Scripture:
2 Corinthians 3:18 – But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.
Romans 12:2 – And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
Philippians 1:6 – Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ; Philippians 1:6
Philippians 3:20-21 – For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.
