"Finding Steadiness in Change" by Emmitt Drumgoole
“I declare that your steadfast love is established forever; your faithfulness is as firm as the heavens” (Psalms 89:2).
My Christmas experiences have changed annually. God hasn’t.
Three years ago, Kristen and I traveled to Houston to spend a few days with my family. It was the first time Kristen got to see my family’s expression of holiday cheer, complete with call and response chants, dancing, and soulful singing of the Temptations Christmas album.
Then there was two years ago where we spent the week of Christmas in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, affectionately known as Amish country. We drove our vehicles behind horse-drawn carriages, purchased sweet corn and other goods from the farmer’s market, and warmed ourselves near the pellet stove as we played card games together.
Last year, we spent Christmas at 217 East Franklin St, Liberty, Missouri. With a cross country move, recent graduation from seminary, and a spouse in her third trimester, we couldn’t safely travel to see our families. This year, due to COVID, we won’t be able to travel. Once again, we will spend Christmas in Liberty, Missouri.
The more things change, the more I see that which remains steady. Throughout my Christmas adventures the past four years, a few things remain steady with all of the changes and new experiences. Love, joy, hope, and peace; all grounded in God’s faithfulness in our world.
At the heart of Psalm 89 is a celebration of God, whose faithfulness is on grand display. The author looks back upon God’s promises to David, and with enthusiasm, declares it for the world to see. Today, our world desperately desires to find peace among our families, neighbors, and in our nation. Wherever you and I are this season, let us look for the One who is steady and faithful. Let us declare God’s faithfulness, and in God, let us find the peace for which we are longing.