July 2017 - LPNI

God’s Word Endure

Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.  Mark 13:35
Change is all around us. It is said that there are two things that are certain in life, death and taxes.  I think we can add a third item to that list and that would be “change.”   Change can throw life off balance.  Illness, loss of a loved one or a job, the birth of a baby or children growing up and leaving home are just a few examples of changes in our lives. Society, too, seems to be changing, at times looking like it is in chaos, with morals becoming more lax or even nonexistent. This is not new.  Even in the 19th century the author Henry Lyte wrote the text to the old favourite hymn “Abide with Me”, said “change and decay in all around I see.”
What is it that can counter all that negatively that can affect our lives?  While family and friends can help, there is only one who never changes, only one who is true and faithful.   That one is the Lord our God.  He has written His love letter to us in the Bible, but He has done even more.  He sent His Son, Jesus, to die in our place and reconcile us sinners to Him.   God never changes, nor do His Word and promises.  No matter what happens, God is in control.   Through Jesus we can have peace of mind and in Him we will be victorious amid our various changes.
Yes, His Word is strong, as we sing in the hymn, “Thy Strong Word.”  His word was present in the beginning and will be there for all eternity.  He is our future, whatever changes in life come our way.
Prayer – Lord God, Heavenly Father, we thank You that you are the same yesterday, today and tomorrow, that Your Word never changes.  You truly are the constant in our lives.  Thank you for sending Jesus, the Word made flesh, to the earth to provide the way for our salvation.  We pray that the Holy Spirit would guide us and keep us in the one true faith, until you take us to be with you for all eternity.  In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Judy Hertlein, Parish Nurse
Canada

Hymns: “Abide with Me” and “Thy Strong Word” from Lutheran Service Book, Concordia Publishing.