Conversations with high school classmates, fifty years later, covered the myriad of changes we had each experienced. Laughter at long-ago antics peppered the conversation mixed with the sobering realities of what we had all endured.

Change is frightening. It means leaving the familiar and moving into the unfamiliar. Yet, change is the one constant in life. Night becomes Day, Spring transitions to Summer, and infants grow into young adults who start families of their own.

I’m thankful to be able to learn from my friends, as they gracefully navigate ever increasing shifts in health, finances, living arrangements, and relationships.

I think of the foot-of-the-cross scene when Jesus entrusted his mother, Mary, into the care of John the Apostle. John’s own account included the phrase, from that time on, he took her into his home (John 19:27). Tradition holds that Mary had already faced widowhood. In that moment, she was experiencing the torturous death of her son, and soon she would be leaving her home in Nazareth and all that felt familiar.

More recent tradition suggests John took her with him to Ephesus, a city located in modern day Turkey. If she stayed with John as he ministered there, then her life included the equivalent of rigors of travel and Gentile culture shock.

God promises His presence and His grace throughout my life and throughout the changes that come with it. God’s Words to Joshua encourage me. The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged (Deut. 31:7).

When I lean into His strength and courage, I experience the truth of Philippians 4:6-7. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Father, thank you that You are ever-present with us throughout the changes of life. Thank You that when all else changes, You are the one Constant we can depend on.

In Your Son’s name, Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Linda Lesniewski