Nothing But Change

Hebrews 13:8
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

The leaves they are a-changing.

As green fades and red, orange, and gold hang like jewels from the branches, I stand in awe of God's creation. On my morning walks, I take in the amazing changes on the hills that surround us. If I'm early enough, I watch the sky turn from gray to pink, orange, and blue. The clouds billow overhead and a breeze blows.

While I'm excited to see summer gradually fade into autumn, I'm not a huge fan of change in general. I get a bit nervous when plans are altered. I struggle a little as I learn new software, try a different writing technique, or drive somewhere I've never been. (Thank goodness for the GPS.) And good grief, 2020 has been nothing but change. Sometimes all the changes rattles my confidence.

When life throws curveballs—like this year—what do I do?  

I reach out to the One, I know without doubt, I can depend on. Jesus. He never changes. He's the same every day. His love and compassion stay steady. When Peter betrayed him, Jesus kept loving him. Even though religious leaders mocked him, He continued to speak to sinners. Against the custom of his day, He spoke to women in a respectful manner. Jesus made change happen, yet He remained the same.

He's the one consistent anchor. No matter what kind of crazy day I've had, I can open my heart and pour out my prayers to the one who always cares. As the leaves change, I know Jesus stays the same. For this I am thankful. Praise God for Jesus.

Ever Green

Hebrews 13:8
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

One afternoon after work, I strolled along the sidewalk to my car. As usual at this time of year, I glanced at the trees to see the autumnal colors. The college has some lovely maples and several other smaller trees. Along one side of the walkway, a group of small pines stood in front of several deciduous trees whose scarlet, gold, and orange leaves were in the process of falling. It struck me that we, the people God created, are like the trees who go through seasons of change. Not just aging, but spiritual challenges, physical adjustments, and emotional trials.

As I studied the beautiful scene, my focus then rested on the pines. Evergreens don't lose their leaves. They retain their rich, verdant color, even after all the leaves from the deciduous trees fall to the ground. Just as the maples and oaks reminded me of people, the pines reminded me of Jesus. He's always the same. No matter what happens, Jesus is still Jesus and God is still God. Sovereign and in control. My faith rests in the one who never changes. Praise God that I can live without fear because he is the same yesterday and today and forever.