Wednesday; January 8


          Last Sunday morning we sang on old classic hymn that – for some reason –  struck a timely chord with me.  The song, Abide With Me, was written in the mid-19th Century by Henry F. Lyte.  While we may not see the comparisons between the 1840s and today, apparently there were some.  When Lyte wrote the song that would inspire generations of believers he observed, “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 — O Thou who changest not, abide with me.”.  As I sang the song at the beginning of 2020, I was touched by the last part of the second verse that struggles with a world in change and the need to be able to rely on the God who doesn’t.  I don’t know the issues that were facing Lyte’s world almost 175 years ago, but modern society seems to be changing all around me.  Many of the things that formed the foundation of our society are changing – and changing very quickly.  Many of the truths that we never believed would be questioned are under scrutiny.  Roles, beliefs, values and morals seem to be on the fast-track to being irrelevant.  What I often find myself needing is this topsy-turvy world is a Rock that can be relied on.  No, I am not lamenting the passing of traditions, styles or fashions – but we need a reliable Truth. 
          Centuries ago a Christian writer reflected on the propensity for change in his world by noting, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8).  We can be sure that, no matter in which generation we live, we are going to have to deal with changing values, but thanks be to God, we always have an Anchor that can keep us safe and confident.
          Think About It!

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