Devotion: The Same Through the Ages

Text: Hebrews 13:8

You’ve heard the old joke: “How many Lutherans does it take to change a light bulb?” “Change?!” We don’t like it much. We like when things stay the same. We want some things in our lives to be reliable—never changing. But we are surrounded by a world that says, “Nothing stays the same.” “Change is inevitable.” “My, how you’ve grown.” “You’re looking so old.” The reminders that everything changes just keep coming. Our bodies change, our opinions change, our lives change, our culture changes—everything changes. It seems the rate of change continues to accelerate, especially when it comes to technology. And so the reminder from Hebrews 13:8 is such an encouragement, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

How incredible that promise is. Jesus never changes! In a world that thrives on change, one thing remains—Jesus Christ is the light of the world, the light no darkness can overcome. He loves us unconditionally. He sees us in all of our ugliness and shame. He knows our biggest fears, our greatest joys and our deepest dreams. Jesus sees us. He knows us. And He still loves us! Wow!

What a privilege it is to be His instrument. What a joy to carry His unchanging message to a lost and ever-changing world. When you start to feel like you can’t handle even one more change, open God’s Word to Hebrews 13 and take heart in the promise that Jesus remains the same through the ages, and that His love for you is solid.

Reflect:
What changes around you tend to cause you the most angst?
How is the promise that Jesus is the same yesterday and today and forever a source of encouragement for you?

Prayer:
Jesus, You are our firm foundation, our Rock, and our Mighty Fortress. Thank you for Your faithfulness! Help us to cling to You when the changes around us overwhelm. Remind us of Who You are—our Savior, our Lord, and our Friend. In Your name. Amen.