Dear Members and Friends of IBCZ,
A phrase that is sometimes used to describe these past few months is that we are living “in uncertain times.” How true that is, and no doubt we all have felt that. Just six months ago no one would have anticipated the changes that have been thrust upon us that have affected almost every area of our lives – work, school, family, church, travel, recreation, shopping, socializing, etc. Furthermore, we don’t know what even the near future will look like, to say nothing of the more distant future. Even so-called experts have differing opinions on what will happen concerning public health, the economy, education, commerce, and worship gatherings. In Switzerland, we are now in the second of three phases of returning to normalcy, but no one can predict if all this will go according to plan, or whether a second wave might strike, or just what life will look like in the next few months and beyond. As of now, nothing is certain.
Of course, suggesting that we are currently living in “uncertain times” is a bit misleading simply because it implies that other periods are characterized by “certain times.” But that is just not true. While not every period is marked by such drastic uncertainty, every season of life, and even every day, is in some ways uncertain. When we get up in the morning, we have no guarantee the day will go as we anticipate. I’m sure we’ve all had our plans changed and our lives interrupted by unforeseen events – an accident, the surprise loss of a job, betrayal, a major business deal that unexpectedly and suddenly falls through, or even a traffic jam that causes us to miss an important meeting.
The uncertainty and unpredictability of life is something the writers of Scripture knew well. The author of Ps. 46 refers to life-altering change in vs. 2-3: “We will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult.” This speaks of the whole world being thrown into turmoil, yet the writer would not fear. Why not? Because as he affirmed in vs. 1: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” The Almighty God, perfect in His wisdom, love, and faithfulness is our strength. We can be certain of His strength and help at all times, for as God said through the prophet Malachi (3:6), “I the LORD do not change.”
In an uncertain world, the one thing we can be certain of is the goodness and faithfulness, the presence and love of God who does not change. May we live each day with this firm assurance.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Bob