change

Francheska Sandoval

I grew up with change. As a missionary child, I knew change was not an option, it was inevitable. I learned not to plan past a few months, as within that timespan I could not only be in a different country, I would most likely be in a whole other continent. I had mixed feelings about change. On the one hand, exciting adventures were guaranteed, but on the other I would be torn away from my home and people I loved. That change was never easy.

And then, the year 2020 came. Ah, 2020 – it could arguably be crowned “The Year of Change.” No amount of change while growing up could have prepared me for the changes this year has brought.

When I was little, I developed a saying that stayed with me to this day – “this too shall pass.” It reminded me that if I was in a bad moment, it would end. Now, it is also a reminder to live in the moment, for it too will pass. I strive to imprint in my mind’s eye the sights, sounds, smells of happiness. I do this so on my blue days, I can wander in my mind palace, sort through my memories and cling tightly to good days. Never have I needed that little saying as much as I have this year.

However, if there is one thing I have learned in 2020 is that nothing makes me seek God and cling to His promises like change does. Clinging to Him does not mean that we won’t still have to experience unwanted changes, but it does mean we can face the changes with a peace of mind in the knowledge He is in control. He is our Heavenly Father, and thus He only wants what is best for His children and will not give us challenges beyond what we can bear. So, I am learning to view change not as a negative experience wrought with fear and anxiety, but as an opportunity to develop my faith.

Going back to my little saying “this too shall pass”, there is one thing that never will pass, that will never EVER change – Yahweh-Shammah, the Lord who is present. “For I, the Lord, do not change…” (Malachi 3:6a). It is a comforting thought to know that no matter what this life can throw at us, how great the changes may be, God remains the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

For those who are graduating, major changes are ahead – finding a job and discovering our place in this world. I know how terrifying this seems; but friends, let’s bravely face this coming year and smile in the face of change. Let’s dare life to throw its worst, for God is at our side. If He is for us, who can be against us?

“view change not as a negative experience wrought with fear & anxiety, but as an opportunity to develop my faith”