Changes

As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” At once they left their nets and followed him. – Matthew 4.18-20

From Sam Lomas:

Recently I was struck by how suddenly big changes took place in the lives of Jesus’ first disciples when He called them to be His followers.  In an instant they suddenly had: a change of job; a change of location; a change of social status; a change of economic status; a change of family; a change of security.  The list goes on.   

It is a helpful reminder that deciding to follow Jesus, whether that’s today or two thousand years ago, means to embrace change no matter how big or small that may be.  But here is the amazing thing – we never do that alone!  It is with the knowledge and understanding of God’s promise to ‘never leave nor forsake us’ that we embrace change.   

Throughout our lives, changes come in all sorts of shapes and sizes.  Some are big, perhaps moving where you live or starting a new school.  Others are smaller, perhaps changing class or your hair-style.

I wonder, be honest with yourself and consider for a moment how well you cope with changes?   

Often change causes anxiety.  The fear of the unknown can make us feel very nervous and unsure.  You may currently be feeling nervous in your workplace.  Or perhaps you are scared when you go to the supermarket.  Maybe the idea of returning to church on a Sunday is making you feel on edge.

In the midst of any change we experience, let us remember the promise of God’s presence no matter what.  In addition, let us remember and focus our attention not just on what is changing, but on what is unchanging.  More specifically, let us remember and focus our attention on who is unchanging – Jesus Christ our Lord.

‘Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever’ (Heb 13.8).  The gift of salvation, promise of peace and the call to live a life to the full remains the same today just as it did the day you first heard the message of Jesus.

Although we may experience change, we can be confident in the knowledge that Jesus has not changed.  Whatever change you are facing, remember that Jesus will be with you through it, but also – He will never change.