Change

“Time’s up!
God’s kingdom is here.
Change your life
and believe the Message.”

Mark 1:15 (The Message)

“Vote for change” are familiar words these days. In a world that changes faster than our ability to keep up we keep looking for the “change” that will make everything better. Whether it’s a “change” that takes us back to some point where we felt comfortable or “change” that takes us out of our discomfort we want to keep things within our comfort zone.

But, change shouldn’t happen just for the sake of changing. What Jesus wants isn’t change just for change sake. When Jesus preaches about the good news that God’s Kingdom is here he’s talking about a change with one goal in mind—life itself.

When Peter and Andrew, James and John leave the only life they know to follow Jesus they chose a new life. Their choice of change brought financial instability not only to themselves but to those who depended on them. What went through their minds as they changed their lives no one will ever know. But through the gospels we see that their change choice radically altered their lives and ultimately has changed the course of millions of lives. It was a change for growth and life in God’s kingdom.

When we follow Jesus we must be ready for life-change. The disciples were on the move with Jesus, the message of the Kingdom was the constant, but life lived was always growing. To grow in Christ requires a “vote for change” to live life in God’s Kingdom. It guarantees a life richer and much more fulfilling.

Jesus, change is not very comfortable.

By choosing your Kingdom life I know
that my life cannot stay the same.
A vote for change means allowing
you to do with me what you will.
As uncertain as it is, I choose
life in your Kingdom.
Amen.

Artwork--Sermon on the Mount, Fra Angelico, Museo Di San marco Dell'Angelico, Florence.