Words and phrases that only 6 months ago would have seemed odd are today pervasive shared global vocabulary – shelter in place; stay at home order; lockdown; essential business; PPE; N95; COVID-19. Uncertainty and anxiety are also pervasive, shared, and global. Most of us realize that the world is not going to suddenly snap back into its previous condition. Some things may never return to “normal.”
I don’t know about you, but my family and I need some things that we know will not change. Just a few things that were the same before as they are now and will be the same when this is past. This may be only for my benefit, but here is a list of 10 things that do not change. I pray for all of us, that we might find the grace and mercy we need for these days. (All verses from the Psalms, NRSV.)
- God’s wonders. And I say, “It is my grief that the right hand of the Most High has changed.” I will call to mind the deeds of the Lord; I will remember your wonders of old (77.10–11). He has not changed.
- God’s presence. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change . . . (46.1–2). He is not gone. He will not leave.
- God’s love. O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever (136.1). He never skips a beat.
- The mercy and grace of God. The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. . . . He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. (103.8,10). He is unspeakably kind.
- The finished work of Christ. The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind, “You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek” (110.4). Jesus is our priest, king, and Lord forever.
- Access to God. But you have upheld me because of my integrity, and set me in your presence forever (41.12). He is never far from any of us.
- Trust and gratitude. But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God. I trust in the steadfast love of God forever and ever. I will thank you forever, because of what you have done. In the presence of the faithful I will proclaim your name, for it is good (52.8–9). These are never the wrong response.
- Confidence in God. For the righteous will never be moved; they will be remembered forever. They are not afraid of evil tidings; their hearts are firm, secure in the Lord. Their hearts are steady, they will not be afraid; in the end they will look in triumph on their foes (112.6–8). He will not fail.
- God’s Word. Your decrees are righteous forever; give me understanding that I may live . . . The sum of your word is truth; and every one of your righteous ordinances endures forever (119.144, 160) No lie.
- God’s Kingdom. All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the Lord; and all the families of the nations shall worship before him. For dominion belongs to the Lord, and he rules over the nations (22.27–28). He will be all in all, forever.
We do what we do because of who He is and what He has done. These things do not change. In a time where much is uncertain, may our hearts be firm and secure in the Lord.