Week #2: Embracing Transformation in Our Calling
Blog Series Intention Recap
This four-part series deals with common heretical beliefs held by those in society—and many in the church. Through examining some of these beliefs through a biblical lens and seeing the struggles Christians have had throughout the centuries, we can see the truth of God’s Word and how to gain a better appreciation of the importance of correct doctrine.
This post is part of the series “Am I Called?” Click here to see the rest of the posts.
Let’s jump into Week #2:
Following Jesus calls us to transformation—a life that reflects His love and priorities. Our calling is evidenced by ongoing, visible change.
Luke 19:1-10 (Zacchaeus)
In Luke 19:1-10, we find the story of Zacchaeus, a tax collector whose life was radically changed after meeting Jesus. His transformation illustrates that calling isn’t just about where we begin, but how we allow God to reshape us. His actions—repenting, restoring, and giving generously—demonstrate that real calling involves radical change.
Why it Matters:
Openness to Change: Transformation begins with a desire to know Jesus.
Repentance: Following Jesus means letting go of old ways.
Generosity and Justice: Transformed lives show Christ’s love through action.
Takeaway: Practice confession, generosity, and service to reflect God’s heart.
Go Deeper:
Last week, we explored how calling begins with following Jesus and prioritizing His presence. This week, we’ll dive into the next step: transformation. Following Jesus is not just a decision; it’s an invitation to ongoing change. Transformation is evidence of a genuine calling, marked by growth and a life that reflects Jesus.
In Luke 19:1-10, we find the story of Zacchaeus, a tax collector whose life was radically changed after meeting Jesus. His transformation illustrates that calling isn’t just about where we begin, but how we allow God to reshape us.
Zacchaeus: A Portrait of Radical Change
Zacchaeus was a wealthy man and chief tax collector, a role that made him despised in his community. Yet, his encounter with Jesus shows that no one is beyond transformation. When Zacchaeus climbed a tree to see Jesus, he demonstrated a deep desire to know Christ, despite his status. Jesus saw Zacchaeus, called him down, and declared He would stay at Zacchaeus's house, shocking those who witnessed it.
What happened next highlights the transformative nature of calling. Zacchaeus, touched by Jesus’ acceptance, repented and declared, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor, and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold” (Luke 19:8, ESV). His actions were a response to the love and mercy Jesus showed him. Zacchaeus’s story reveals three principles about the transformation calling brings.
Desiring to See Jesus: Openness to Transformation
Zacchaeus’s willingness to climb a tree and make himself vulnerable demonstrated his deep desire to know Jesus. Despite his wealth and power, he recognized his spiritual need.
Transformation begins with desire—an openness to change and a willingness to pursue Jesus even when it disrupts our comfort. The heart that truly follows Jesus doesn’t seek Him merely for personal gain but out of a longing for life change.
Application: Consider your own level of openness to God’s transformation. Are you willing to let go of comfort and status to seek Him fully? Ask God to reveal areas in your life where you may be resistant to change.
Repentance as a Marker of Change: Letting Go of the Old Self
When Zacchaeus encountered Jesus, he didn’t hold onto his wealth and ways. Instead, he repented and restored what he had wrongfully taken. This action demonstrated that he was willing to let go of the person he once was.
True calling requires repentance—a willingness to abandon behaviors, thoughts, and attachments that do not honor God. Zacchaeus’s repentance was a public declaration that his life belonged to Christ. For each of us, repentance is part of transformation, helping us to leave behind sin and live a life that reflects Jesus.
Application: Take time to confess areas where you’ve been holding back from God. Whether it’s pride, selfishness, or dishonesty, repentance allows God to reshape us into who we are called to be. Let go of the past to make room for God’s future.
Embracing Generosity and Justice: Living Out the Transformation
Zacchaeus’s generosity was a direct result of his encounter with Jesus. He not only repaid what he had taken but went above and beyond, giving back fourfold. Transformation always results in actions that reflect God’s character.
Living out our calling means aligning our actions with Jesus’ teachings. Zacchaeus’ transformation was evidenced through his generosity and justice—two values at the heart of God. As Christ-followers, our lives should reflect these qualities, showing that our calling impacts others and not just ourselves.
Application: Seek ways to express generosity and justice in your own life. Consider serving in your community, giving sacrificially, or making amends with those you’ve wronged. Transformation is always visible in how we treat others.
Practical Steps to Live Out Transformation
The transformation of Zacchaeus’s life offers us a roadmap. Here are practical ways to embrace and live out our calling to transformation:
Daily Surrender: Begin each day with a prayer of surrender, inviting God to change your heart and mind in any way He desires.
Practice Confession: Make a habit of confessing sin to God regularly, acknowledging areas where you fall short and seeking His forgiveness and strength to grow.
Engage in Generosity: Look for ways to be generous with your resources and time. Volunteer, give financially to those in need, or find ways to support your community.
Seek Accountability: Transformation is difficult alone. Surround yourself with others who will encourage your growth and hold you accountable.
Reflect on Growth: Set aside time to look back at your journey with Christ. Celebrate the ways God has changed you and let this inspire you to pursue further growth.
How does this help me understand, “Am I Called?”
Calling Is Evidenced by a Changed Life
Zacchaeus’s story reminds us that calling is more than a one-time experience. Following Jesus changes us, reshaping our priorities, actions, and heart. Like Zacchaeus, we are called to lives marked by repentance, generosity, and justice. Our transformation is the clearest evidence of our calling.
Our journey with Christ should produce visible change, drawing others to God’s work in us. As we grow in Him, let’s allow transformation to shape us into people who reflect His love and compassion.
God calls us not just to a moment of decision but to a lifetime of transformation. Zacchaeus’s story reminds us that following Jesus leads to a changed life—one that reflects His values and priorities. This week, embrace the call to transformation, letting Jesus reshape your heart, actions, and desires. As we answer His call, our lives will shine as a testament to His power to change and renew.
