In 1964 Bob Dylan recorded a song about the times then, called “The Times they are A-changin’”. It was true then and certainly true today. Every day we hear about some new idea, medical procedure, technical invention, or some threat to our safety from some foreign power. The TV, newspapers and the internet makes sure that we hear about these things immediately. The Bible tells us that it is the Word of God and that God’s Word never changes.
In the New Testament, we read of the event that changed the world forever. Galatians 4:4-5 reminds us “But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.” Prophesies in the Old Testament spoke of this coming event, but many of the scholars of the time did not understand the message. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John tells the story of the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, but at the time most did not understand the significance of the events that brought this change. The Jewish nation was looking for a king, someone who would return their nation to power and free them from foreign dominance. The pagans and gentiles, as the Jews called them, were worshiping false gods with no concern for the spiritual aspect of life.
Jesus came teaching a philosophy of life that concentrated on the condition of our heart, our attitude toward our fellow man, and our relationship with God, the Father. His obedience to God’s will led Him to be crucified and sacrificed on the cross for our sins. His teaching and the impact of His life, death, and resurrection brought about the greatest change in the world. Yes, the world is changing now, but the word of God does not change and the power of Jesus’ teaching continues today. Psalm 46:10 tells us, “Be still and know that I am God.” Our task is to stop and think upon the gifts of this life. In James 1:16-17, we are admonished: “Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.”
We must make a conscious decision to still our hearts and minds in this changing world and pause to thank God for Jesus and the abundant life that He has promised.
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