Change is in the air in our hometown. The mornings are cooler, the days are shorter, and the trees are starting to sport their fall colors. We’re still supposed to have temps in the 90’s today, but all the signs are there that cooler days are just around the corner.
Changes are happening in the world around us too. We can see this in the political unrest and division in our nation, the increasing ferocity of storms and extremes of heat and cold, and the news of “wars and threats of war…” and “famines and earthquakes in many parts of the world.” (Matthew 24:6, 8 NLT). All make it clear that change is coming, that our world is waxing old like a garment. (Isaiah 51:6)
Just as the changing of the leaves in autumn lets us know the seasons are changing, the same is true of the events we see happening in our world. Jesus said, “In the same way, when you see all these things, you can know his return is very near, right at the door.” (Matthew 24:33 NLT).
For some the changing of seasons is met with dread, because they know the storms of winter and frigid cold are sure to follow. Others, however, revel in the changes, enjoying the multi-colored beauty of fall and anticipating the fun of winter sports and the crispness of the air on a winter morning.
In the same way, for many the changes happening in our world fill them with despair and panic. They dread the unknown. For God’s children, however, these signs are met with joy, because they know a new dawn is just over the horizon.
While it is true that “no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen…” (v. 36), we can find hope in the promise that whatever happens we have a Heavenly Father who does know and who will always be our refuge and our fortress, our God, in whom we trust. (Psalm 91:2 NIV).
Change is in the air. There is no doubt about that, but don’t be afraid. Instead, “when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.”. (Luke 21:28 KJV).
God bless and Happy Sabbath!