Change. Does seeing this word make you feel a bit uncomfortable?
Having just graduated from college, my life is filled with many changes.Yet, these changes are only the beginning! In the near future I hope to fly over an ocean, learn a new language, decorate a new apartment, meet many new people, establish a new church, and begin teaching a new classroom of students!
Though these changes may sound exciting, I know that they will be filled with struggles. I think about Jesus' words:
"In the world you will have trouble. But take heart; I have overcome the world." John 16:33
How are we to respond when change happens and circumstances get difficult? It's impossible for us to be happy when we don't like the changes happening in our lives. But, we can remain joyful. Paul gives us an excellent standard:
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; For this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
The other day my dad brought up some antique furniture that used to belong to his parents. My family knows that this furniture is important to my dad. One of his favorite pieces is an old victorian hat rack/mirror piece. My dad announced that it deserved a central location in our house: the front doorway! We gathered together in the doorway for the unveiling of his treasure. This is what we saw:
Not frightened? Let's take a closer look...
Still trying to be brave?
Enough already. Admit it. It's terrifying!
Okay, so maybe some of you appreciate this kind of craftmanship. Howerver, my initial response looked more like this:
(Yes, I am cowering in fear . . . and begging for mercy. . . from a piece of furniture.)
My mom and I are both intimidated by the large, seemingly angry eyes on this lion! As soon as my dad left the room, we began to search for a more positive perspective on our new piece of furniture:
"Well," my mom said. "Let's see... lions... lions... I've got it! You like The Chronicles of Narnia, right? Aslan! This is Aslan!" I quickly responded, "Sure. Aslan preparing for judgment. We'd better watch out!"
But, my mom was right. She'd already realized that we couldn't help this change. This furniture is important to my dad. We're keeping it because we love him.
Don't get me wrong-- I still have a hard time walking past this guy in the middle of the night...but, we know that we can be joyful through all changes, even when they are hard changes!
I know that I will face much more difficult changes than this while I am in Prague. Yet, the lesson is the same. In all circumstances, Jesus expects me to be joyful and thankful!
We're all expected to rejoice and be thankful in all circumstances: What are you rejoicing over today? Thank God for these things!
Today I'm praising God for:
- Many phone calls and skype calls with friends around the world! I'm so thankful for all of your stories, support, and encouragements.
- The inflow of continued financial support! Praise God for his provision... it's still coming in!
- The continued support of my family. Though it is hard for them to have me so far away, they're ready to see me serving and growing through my teaching position in Prague.
