One consequence of Calix’s arrival is an expanded rotation list for writing the Connect editorial. That means, what has been a regular contribution each May (which I’ve done since 2013) has changed to June this year. Change is something that seems to occur at an increasing pace these days, or that may just be me getting older? I have to confess that when it comes to mastering new technology, whether it be in household appliances that get replaced when old ones die or new electronic devices with new operating systems I’ve been known to have a “change meltdown” and ask why things can’t just stay as they were!
This month we all have the opportunity to have our say in the EU referendum. “Remain” or “Leave” I venture to suggest it is not a question about change or no change, as the outcome of the referendum will provide a degree of certainty of direction that has been in doubt for several years and therefore influence future change, whatever the result.
On a personal level, after over six years working for my current employer in Dorking, I am starting to look for new employment this month. That is quite a large personal change (and one I’d welcome you asking me how I’m getting on from time to time).
That got me thinking. What is an appropriate Christian response to change? After all Jesus challenged so many of the established norms of society when he was on earth and was regarded by That got me thinking. What is an appropriate Christian response to change? After all Jesus challenged so many of the established norms of society when he was on earth and was regarded by the establishment as a revolutionary. We in turn are called as Christians to be changed and renewed by the Holy Spirit as ongoing “work in progress”. On the other hand, we believe that Jesus came to earth 2000 years ago and died in our place, and that need for personal forgiveness and his ability to give it, remains unchanged today. We sometimes sing “change and decay in all around I see, Oh Lord who changest not, abide with me”
Perhaps the most pertinent test for us as Christians is how we react and respond to changes in personal or family circumstances that we didn’t wish to encounter! Daniel in the Lion’s Den springs to mind as does Horatio Spafford who thought he had lost his entire family in a shipping accident yet was able to write “it is well, it is well with my soul”.
Do we focus on the problem we may be facing or the God we claim we trust in, who promises us as he did with Job that we won’t be tested beyond our ability to endure that test. Next time you sing a great hymn about exercising faith or one of the very meaningful newer songs with words like “and I will trust in you alone”, let’s make it a prayer to do just that and experience “his endless mercy that follows us and his goodness that guides us home”!
Kevin Borrett
Elder
June 2016
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