CHANGE

 

July 2005 article by John Lockyer

 

The predominant theme in the media during the past few weeks has been that of change, with the consequent period of uncertainty which inevitably follows.  With the death of Pope John Paul II, the conclave of cardinals selected Cardinal Ratzinger as the next pope, to be known as Pope Benedict XVI.  Catholics throughout the world, as well as many other observers, now wait to see whether the Pope continues with the very orthodox and stringent beliefs and practices of his predecessor, or whether his accession will herald a more liberal approach, more in accord with 21st century attitudes to life.

 

The general election in this country at the beginning of May was the subject of endless comment, with the possibility of a change of government.  Although this did not happen, the balance of power certainly has, with New Labour losing many seats to the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats.  And this uncertainty in political circles continues with the intended resignation of Michael Howard, the Conservative leader.

 

However, the greatest change has undoubtedly been seen in the overwhelming rejection of the proposed European Constitution by France and Holland in their referenda, and the reverberations which are already being felt throughout Europe, and the profound uncertainty which is already being expressed by political leaders and analysts as they seek to perceive the way ahead for Europe.

 

Centuries before the birth of the Lord Jesus, Malachi – a Hebrew prophet – recorded some words by Almighty God:  “For I am the LORD, I change not …”.  This was no new concept because centuries before these words were written, Moses recorded some other words by the Almighty: “But as truly as I live, all the earth shall be filled with the glory of the LORD.”

 

That is the consistent, unchanging message throughout the Bible.  But it is one of the great paradoxes that this unchanging purpose is designed to bring about the most fundamental change of all: a Kingdom of God upon this earth ruled over by the Lord Jesus Christ!

 

For those who are willing to believe this and become disciples of the Lord Jesus, there is a wonderful prospect of a still greater change.

 

The Apostle Paul, when writing to the Corinthians, put it like this:

 

            “We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed.  For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.

 

            “So when this corruption shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.”

 

AND THAT IS THE ONLY CHANGE WHICH REALLY MATTERS!