”Change is Hard, But...” Advent Devoation for December 4, 2021

Change is Hard, But…

by Mike Vavrus, Confirmation Mentor

Read by Marcia Flaherty

In that region there were shepherds living in the fields,
keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of
the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone
around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said
to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you
good news of great joy for all the people.
--Luke 2:8-10

It has been almost two years since the pandemic was declared and think of how we were all impacted by it. The changes that occurred since then have been vast, and difficult for most of us. People lost jobs or had to drastically change how they work. Kids were suddenly going to school from home--and grownups had to figure that out.

And yet here we are, almost two years later. We find ourselves expecting to get back to the normal that was before the big event. We're waiting for the next change--maybe even looking forward to it.

When the angels appeared to the shepherds, those people were afraid. Angels showing up was a big deal! The good news is that those angels' message to the shepherds, and to all of us is simple: Don't be afraid! Change can bring good news--God is here to help you!

We find ourselves this Advent, as always, looking ahead to good news, knowing that there is big change happening. But look how far we've come with all the changes of the past year and more! Don't be afraid of the change--know that God will be with us to sustain and strengthen us. Change is hard--but with God through Jesus Christ, we can find joy in what the future holds.

God, you are amazing. As we wait expectantly for the changes that come to this world, we can look forward with open hearts and perhaps even joy, knowing that with you, we can handle the change. Amen