What is transformation?

To follow up on last week's post, we move to the subject of "transformation." When we say "catalyzing transformation," what exactly does that mean?

Well last week, we looked at the scientific definition of "catalyst." So, let's look at the scientific definition of transformation. In genetics, the term transformation means "the genetic alteration of a cell resulting from the direct uptake and incorporation of foreign DNA from its surroundings through the cell membrane." In biology, the term means "any change in an organism that alters its general character and mode of life; post-natal biological transformation or metamorphosis."  A more general definition is "the act, state or process of changing, such as in form or structure; the conversion from one form to another."

This is intriguing. transformation is the process of changing form, or shape. That is the literal definition from the Latin. But another word previously mentioned is the word "metamorphosis," which comes from the Greek "metamorphóō," which means "to transform or change shape." Once again, in biology, the process of metamorphosis involves the abrubt physical development or transformation of an organism from one embryonic or larval state into another form or structure. Caterpillars and butterflies tend to the most common example, but certainly not the only one.

In chemistry, transformation is the conversion of a substrate to a product. In other words, a transformation is the result of adding a catalyst to a chemical substance. The evidence is a new form or structure. When the Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 5.17, that in Christ, we are "new creations," he was talking about transformation.

As catalysts of transformation, we are called to help ignite the spark that produces change in people's lives. We are the one thing that may help bring about life-change. True, permanent, life change.