From John F

CHANGE AND DECAY….?

Recently St Christopher’s home groups have been enjoying the New Testament letter to the Hebrews. In the final chapter, the writer urges his readers, including us, to “Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith” (Hebrews 13:7). Those leaders had completed their service. By their teaching and their example they showed the right path to tread.
Then in the next verse the writer reminds us all that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and for ever.” (Hebrews 13:8)At the start of his letter (Hebrews 1:12), he had quoted words from Psalm 102:27 – “You remain the same, and your years will never end.” Those words were originally addressed to the God of Israel. At the heart of Jewish belief was the affirmation “The Lord our God, the Lord is one.” But here in Hebrews the writer quotes words about God and applies them to Jesus! Leaders come and go. But Jesus Christ is unchanging and eternal.

Recently we have been sharply made aware that leaders do not last for ever – whether a monarch who reigned for more than 70 years, or a Prime Minister who held office for just 45 days. And when a beloved family member or a dear friend dies, we are reminded of the fragility and uncertainty of earthly life.
In the words of that great hymn “Abide with me”:
            Swift to its close ebbs out life’s little day;
            earth’s joys grow dim, its glories pass away.
            Change and decay in all around I see –
            you never change, O Lord: abide with me!

Prayer
Merciful God, teach us to be faithful in change and uncertainty,
that trusting in your word and obeying your will
we may enter the unfailing joy of Jesus Christ our Lord,
who is the same yesterday and today and for ever. Amen.


Category: The Bridge , Thought for the week