While the communities in the leafy lanes of Buckinghamshire will be doing all they can to hinder progress, those most likely to benefit from improved transport links will be starting to plan for the future. But thus it always is when plans for the future are made. Some are for change, while others are for resistance to change. Managing change effectively, so that benefits are maximised for as many as possible, is a much studied art that masquerades as a skill.
Jesus was very aware that his coming was going to bring change, and he challenged people to get ready for the future. ' “The time promised by God has come at last!” he announced. “The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!” (Mark 1.15)
This required repentance - a complete change in direction and destination - is not something we can manage on our own. Having Jesus alongside us, from the start, enables us to become the people he wants us to be. 'One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living. Jesus called out to them,“Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” And they left their nets at once and followed him.' (Mark 1.16-18)
Not everyone was happy with this new movement, and they challenged Jesus and his followers because they didn't do things in the 'old ways'. Jesus had to explain that real change will only happen when we are ready to leave behind the old ways. ' “And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. For the wine would burst the wineskins, and the wine and the skins would both be lost. New wine calls for new wineskins.” (Mark 2.22)
As we face all the challenges brought about by the new life of Jesus in us, we can both appreciate that not everyone will be happy that we are choosing to go with Jesus, and that He will help us to become the changes we long to see.
Best wishes,
Richard
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