Change is serious business

I am about to get on a soapbox. Why? It is this word ‘change’. This word has been used as the buzz word, even before Obama. It was the key word used among religious and non-religious leader who have been pontificating about change for awhile. Well, first let us get one thing straight, change is the only thing that is a constant in this world. It is here, there, everywhere, whether we acknowledge it or not. Now, with that being said, let us all be clear about what changing is about. The bible states in Proverbs 27:17 - Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another (HSCB). Now what do you think this verse is talking about? Well there is going to be some conflict, disagreement, some spark will fly (ever seen iron sharpening iron?), struggle, clash, you all get the picture. Now which of us think of these things when we think about change? I would venture to say, nil to none. You also see nothing in it about being disagreeable, or being resistant or trying to convince another to your way, rather implies this is part of the change, growth and we should accept it. With that being said, how many people you know embrace the idea of change with the welcoming arms of ‘I am ready for this’. Or do you find change is desired but we are not willing to do the work to accomplish it because it is too much time, too hard, and too psychologically or emotionally taxing. All because it hits sensitive spots, someone does not think he/she needs to change, or you have been bitten by that dog before and know holding them accountable does not work. See, no one really wants to do what this verse says, Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us (NASB). True change requires for us to lay aside the things encumbering us, entangling us, and confining us, and fest up to the others who are looking at us as example in the flurry of this world (for they are many). WE have to let go of our self-righteous ego secure in the familiar, expectations grounded in our hurt, focus riddled with our unforgiveness, and perspective frame by our fear. We have to live this life with this verse in mind Rom. 12:2 - Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God. (HSCB), and come out on the other side with grace blessed peace and convergence merciful love.
REM: Bittler people do not get better, only more bitter (Bishop Tutu)