I've spent a fair amount of time in counseling. So much time that I sometimes list it as a hobby. (As a side note: I'm also a counseling evangelist of sorts. One year I referred so many people to my favorite counselor she sent me a Christmas gift. It was a plant. I killed it--requiring more counseling. She's brilliant!) But I digress.![]() My point is that I have an innate hunger to grow. Its something God placed inside me when he formed me and its a part of how my story continues to unfold. My first experiences of counseling were dramatic. Big breakthroughs, seismic internal shifts, and addicting 'aha's' characterized that first season. The transformation was so evident that my physical appearance morphed. The photo snapped as I graduated from my eating disorder treatment program documented a starkly different young woman than the 'before' picture taken just six weeks earlier. Nothing about my body was different but my face was lit up, my eyes were no longer vacant, I emanated hope. But there have been more seasons of slow growth. A seed buried deep in the soil, mysteriously, stealthily becoming something new. Taking its own sweet time before it reveals a small shoot. Then more time as it lengthens and broadens and flowers. Painfully slow. Photo Credit: Jason Samfield Do I look taller to you?![]() I know I'm growing. At least I think I'm growing. But sometimes its hard to quantify or articulate. How does one measure 'more faith' or 'less anger?' Especially when its been a "long obedience in the same direction". So, last week, when I had a distinct 'before' and 'after' moment I engaged in a little celebration. And now, I'm going to share it with you. Photo credit: wwworks Prepare to be underwhelmed.I love a good makeover (I'm taping The Biggest Loser as I write this!), but the most important spiritual transformations occur internally, over time, through consistent disciplines, in the context of community, and the power of the Holy Spirit. They don't make front page headlines and are rarely blog-worthy. But they are the stuff the spiritual journey is made of. It's the evidence of the continuing work of the gospel in my life and some days that encouragement will go a long ways. So here is my little piece of mundane transformation:
See. Nothing to write home about. But I believe there is someone else out there who needs to be encouraged in their slow journey. Who needs to be reminded that these are the biggest miracles--the changing of a heart. And there will be other days in my journey that I'll need this reminder as well. And, now, I'll know where to find it--filed under 'Precious'.
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About Kelli
Kelli is a writer, speaker and consultant equipping leaders for a deepening intimacy with Christ, greater impact in ministry and more effective intentionality in all of life. SpeakingBook Kelli for your next event or retreat.
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