Tides of change

One thing I’m coming to understand in my little world is the only constant seems to be change. With the dawn of each day there’s something that invades my life like the consistency of the ocean’s tide.  These tides of change aren’t necessarily good or bad, they just are!  Have you noticed this peculiarity of life?  You know, where each day brings yet another surprise?  A wave of bewilderment that demands immediate action?  You’ve been there, right?  Remember a time when everything was running smoothly and then, unexpectedly it happens, these tides of change frequent and a necessary adjustment is in order? 

Personally, 2014 has been full of surprises, sprinkled with this situation followed by that circumstance. Numerous episodes that have not only have altered my schedule, they’re becoming common place.  I guess this is why I’ve been having trouble sleeping lately.  Last week, I woke at 2:37 in the morning, wide awake.  This morning, it was 2:17am.  Seriously, what does one do at this crazy hour of the day?  Put the coffee on?  Yes!  Turn the TV on, not a chance (there’s no golf on at this ridiculous hour)! 

As I consider the reality that yes today another surprise is just around the corner, I’m reminded of one of the most famous poems ever put to paper to help bring perspective. The poem was written by King David, Israel’s second king.  He wrote Psalm 23.  Here’s some highlights that have helped me through this phenomenon called tides of change:

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want – amidst change, we can be confident that our shepherd above will meet our every need.  In other words, He’s got it under control!

He makes me lie down in green pastures – amidst change, we’re invited to rest, to chill and to enjoy life. 

He leads me beside still waters, restores my soul and guides me – amidst change, our Creator will navigate our life for the good – for our blessing, His purpose!

Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, You are with me – amidst change, especially during the agitating moments we have, our Creator is right there beside us, holding our hand, sometimes carrying us letting us know it’s all going to be okay.

You prepare a table before in the presence of my enemies – amidst change, we can still find purpose and discover meaning when life doesn’t simply make sense.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me – amidst change, we can be assured that there is a future good and that future good is ours for the apprehending.

Yesterday I received news that my dear friend changed his residence; Bill Reimer moved from this earth to his new home in heaven.  I love Bill like a father; we became very close friends this past year and half.  Though I knew his impending death was close, it still felt like it was new, like tides of change if you will.  As I’ve reflected just these past 12 hours, I’m holding fast to David’s promise in Psalm 23.  I have to. 

The tides of change is here friends.  These tides of change come in different shapes and sizes, they know no boundaries and they come at unexpected times.  And, I submit that Psalm 23 is intended to purify and ennoble our natural emotions that come with these tides of change and elevate us to a position of victory, meaning and acceptance. 

I hope this little article helps.  It has helped me just putting my thoughts on paper as I work through my buddy’s passing.  Have a great day and thanks for your ear!