I like change. At least the change I like. When I think about change, I realize that it is likely to be one of the most consistent aspects of my life. When we think something needs improvement, we make changes. When we think that things are just right, we resist the shift that we feel will mess things up. Nothing seems to be immune from this shift or transformation of our world and our lives. Even Christianity is subject to change. Note, I did not say God is forced to accept change, but how we understand God and what the Lord is doing in our lives is a moving, steady force within our hearts, mind, and soul.

I imagine change could be said to be part of the Holy Spirit’s job description. The Spirit moves within us and changes us in and towards God’s love.

The Apostle Peter had many such moments in his world-changing life. In the book of Acts chapter 11, Peter is in deep prayer when he has a vision that changes his life and Christianity. Peter — a devote Jew, friend, and follower of Jesus the Christ — is commanded by God to not call anything unclean, or unworthy, of God that God has made clean. This is a biblical moment that moves the salvation of God in Christ across the boundary between Jew and Gentile. God was breaking new ground and moving the Good News out into the whole world. Peter and the other Apostles will change their witness to international evangelism. If not for this moment, I may not have ever known the love, grace, and salvation of God in Jesus Christ.

As the earth and humanity go through continual changes, I sometimes feel like my world is colliding with another. When I decide to accept or reject what is happening around me, I realize that some things are out of my depth of understanding or comfort. So, I look to Christ, try to follow his example, and choose grace whenever possible. The last thing I want is to find myself on the wrong side of what God is doing in this world.

Join us in our Sunday Celebration of Life in Jesus Christ as we worship and give thanks to Almighty God. Let’s consider what God has done through Peter, and what the Lord continues to do through his church.

We will meet in the sanctuary at 8:45 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. for worship, praise, and song. We will also be on Facebook Live during our 11:00 a.m. service.

May the Grace and Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you!

Pastor Rick