Monday, June 21

One of the most often heard pleas over the past few months has been a call for change.  As we look back throughout history, this shouldn’t surprise us – it is a recurring theme.  Sometimes the call comes from a political party, other times it comes from those hoping to seek social change; there are even times when it comes from a group wanting to reform religion.  As the old adage says, “Change is inevitable”.  While the call to change is nothing new – nor is it always bad – there is one primary element that must be addressed in change and that is, for it to be effective, it must make things better.  Change, for change sake, is just change.  Changing things in a way that elevates actions or raises morays; now that is something worth exploring.  The temptation is to base change on agendas; however, what is really needed is true growth and development.
The reason for addressing this issue is as a reminder that if we want any kind of change to be significant, it must bring us closer to the true, fundamental values of godliness.  If the call for change is to reverse the trends and seek to make things better, then the focus of change must be virtuous.  If we are truly looking to improve our nation or even advance the world, at the heart of reform must be righteousness.
Jesus was once regarded as a change-agent by His society, but what He built actually made things better.  So, what made His movement different than others?  Here is a portion of His platform, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33).  Jesus’ restoration led mankind closer to God.  If we believe we should be pushing for change, let’s make sure we are heading in the right direction – one that draws us closer to one another and closer to God.
          Think About It!

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