Mystical Transformation: A Journey of Healing and Union with God
by Rod Janz, SoulStream Partner
Mystical transformation is often seen as something distant or reserved for only a select few, but it is a path available to all. At its core, mystical transformation is about the deep inner journey toward discovering our true selves already in union with God.
This journey is one of healing, growth, and love—a progression from our false self, shaped by wounds and misunderstandings, toward the true self, which is made in the image of God. The spiritual journey is one in which we move from image to likeness; we become more like God—more loving, just, and kind, as exemplified by Jesus. As we move through this transformation, it affects both our inner lives and how we engage with the world around us.
This article will explore the key aspects of mystical transformation by diving into the healing process, the integration of psychology and spirituality, and the role of mystical experience. We’ll also look at how these concepts apply to everyday Christian life, emphasizing the hope that this transformation brings to all believers.
Disclaimer: These are the views of the author and not necessarily SoulStream’s.
Deep inner change
Christian mystical transformation refers to the process by which individuals undergo a deep inner change, moving from the belief that we are separated from God (many teachers say we are in “a state of separation from God,” but that’s not what I teach) to a more embodied state of union with God. This journey is not simply about isolated mystical experiences—moments of ecstatic or transcendent encounters with the divine—but about a sustained, gradual transformation of the heart and mind.
The early Christian mystics, such as St. Augustine, St. Teresa of Avila, and St. John of the Cross, have written about this path of transformation. They describe it as the movement from our “false self,” shaped by wounds, fears, and desires for control, to our “true self,” which is united with God and reflects divine love and compassion.
The core of mystical transformation is love—God’s love for us and our capacity to love others. It’s a journey that calls for healing and openness to God’s grace, leading us to embody the divine in our everyday lives.
The True Self and the False Self
One of the foundational concepts in Christian mystical theology is the distinction between the “true self” and the “false self.” The false self is the identity we construct based on our wounds, fears, and societal pressures. It’s the part of us that seeks approval, control, and security in ways that lead us away from our relationship with God.
The true self is the part of us that reflects God’s image and likeness. It is who we are at our deepest core—whole, loved, and connected to God’s presence. Thomas Merton, a key figure in modern contemplation, described the true self as the place where God dwells within us. One of my favourite quotes from him is, “I am someone simply loved by God.” Mystical transformation is the process of shedding the false self and awakening to this true self.
This transformation is not simply a shift in our external behaviour or even a change in how we think about God. It’s a profound inner journey in which we come to see ourselves and the world through God’s eyes. As we move toward our true selves, we are empowered to live more authentically, with love, compassion, and humility.
Role of Mysticism in Everyday Christian Life
Many people think of mysticism as something separate from everyday life—a special experience reserved for monks or saints. However, Christian mysticism is not an escape from the world but an invitation to engage more deeply with it.
The early mystics believed that the path to (realized) union with God could be found in the ordinary moments of life, as well as in prayer and contemplation. Mystical transformation is not about retreating from the world but about learning to see God in all things. It calls us to live out the teachings of Christ in our daily interactions, to be vessels of love and grace in the world.
Mystical transformation is for all, not just those who enter religious life. Everyone is invited to participate in this journey of transformation, allowing God to heal and renew them from the inside out. Through prayer, meditation, acts of love, and spiritual direction or authentic friendships, we can all experience this deeper union with God.
Mystical Experience vs. Mystical Transformation
About 25 years ago, I was reading something by a well-known contemplative author (possibly John of the Cross or the unknown author of “The Cloud of Unknowing”) who emphasized not placing too much importance on extraordinary mystical experiences. This stood out to me as I was deeply involved in the charismatic movement at the time and also exploring contemplation.
That said, it’s essential to differentiate between mystical experience and mystical transformation. While visions, ecstasies, or transcendence can occur, they aren’t the essence of mysticism, which is focused on deep inner transformation rather than isolated spiritual experiences.
Mystical transformation is about the gradual, lifelong process of becoming our true selves in union with God. As Eugene Peterson said, it’s a “long obedience in the same direction.” It’s not about seeking out special, often short-lived experiences but about allowing God’s love to transform every aspect of our being. This transformation is marked by an increase in love, compassion, joy, and humility, not by the frequency or intensity of mystical experiences.
The periodic gifts of mystical experience can give us glimpses of God’s loving presence, but the deeper work of transformation happens in the everyday moments of life—in prayer, in relationships, and in selfless acts of service. Mystical transformation is a journey of becoming more fully ourselves in Christ.
A Profound and Accessible Path
Christian mystical transformation is a profound and accessible path for everyone. It invites us to move beyond our false selves, heal our psychological wounds, and discover our true selves already in union with God. By integrating insights from mysticism, psychology, and theology, we can embark on this journey with hope and trust, knowing that God’s love is guiding us every step of the way.
In a world that often emphasizes outward success and performance, mystical transformation reminds us that the most important journey happens within. As we open ourselves to God’s grace, we experience the healing, love, and peace that come from living in union with the Divine. This transformation not only changes our inner lives but also empowers us to bring God’s love into the world.
Walking the Path of Transformation with Community and Spiritual Guidance
I have found that engaging in Christian mystical transformation is most fruitful with a supportive community and spiritual guidance. When I began this journey, I experienced a powerful metaphor while hiking. I felt drawn off a well-used, groomed path into an isolated area of the park I was walking and praying in. Going off the well-used path both physically and spiritually made me anxious. At the same time, I sensed God encouraging me to apply a little hiking wisdom: if you’re going to go off the main path, let someone know. That wisdom led me to my first spiritual director, who essentially, along with God, kept me safe and was my guide in this unfamiliar spiritual territory.
The practice of Christian mysticism, participating in authentic contemplative communities, and meeting with a spiritual director were and continue to be life changing. If you’re on this path, I recommend finding a spiritual director or in the very least contemplative community. If you’re open to learning more about spiritual direction, learn more at SoulStream Spiritual Direction. If you’re looking for a safe, loving contemplative community, contact us, and we’ll help you connect with individuals and groups that are a part of SoulStream.
Sources:
Inner & Outer Journeying
Mystical Transformation of Heart and Mind
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