Speaking of Change

Advent reminds us that God’s call to transform creation represents a radical change in business-as-usual. For some people, change represents opportunity and adventure. For others, change is difficult and is associated with fear and anxiety. Some changes are chosen: a new school, a new job, a move to a new house, for example. Others are forced upon one by circumstances — getting laid off, death, becoming a refugee, seeking asylum from those who seek to punish and kill.

Some changes result when many smaller situations coalesce and bring about a major shift in the way we look at things. We are learning day by day that the present economic crisis had been in the process of developing from years of policy changes and decisions that led to countless financial commitments based on more and more speculative foundations, which all seems to have come together in a perfect storm.

These financial difficulties are having a profound effect on political institutions around the world. The results of our national elections last month were primarily driven by the dramatic economic downturn. And the change of power in Washington, D.C., and across the country next month could be just the beginning of a worldwide process. The old certainties are disappearing. While some may see opportunities in the new situation, others are fearful and seek security.

Change is always difficult, even when it is chosen. Forced change is painful and shatters life. It may take a long time to recover. Refugees and asylum-seekers, the victims of warfare and conflict, did not choose their situation; it happened, and now they have to carry the pain of it. Men and women who have lost their jobs know the pain of the kind of forced change that dramatically alters their lives and can have negative impact on family relationships and financial situations.

Life is often unpredictable and yet, as persons, we long for some stability and order in the midst of the confusion. In a situation of change it can be difficult to remain hopeful, and God can seem very distant and uncaring. People may ask, “Why is God so silent?” or “Why did this happen to me?

Take a look at last Sunday’s readings for the Second Sunday of Advent (Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11; 2 Peter 3:8-14; Mark 1:1-8). They give hope to people who are beginning to despair and doubt God’s promise. In their way of thinking and feeling, God seems to be acting too slowly. Perhaps God has abandoned them?

In the reading from the prophet Isaiah, the Jewish people exiled in Babylon are promised consolation. Being taken as prisoners into exile was a catastrophe for the people of Israel. It meant becoming slaves again, dispossession and the loss of homeland. All their hopes and expectations were shattered. Isaiah tells his people to continue to trust in God Who will lead them from slavery and exile back to the Promised Land.

The Second Letter of Peter gives encouragement to those who despair about the timing of the Lord’s Second Coming. The author warns against being impetuous for the last days. Christians are commended to live faithful and holy lives while they wait for God. Some people think God is working too slowly. The purpose of God’s plan is to give people time to change. God is patient and works slowly. God respects human freedom and allows growth to happen in small, often imperceptible, ways. It is only over a period of years that one can see the changes that have occurred.

The Gospel reading offers the hope of change in the form of a new beginning. This beginning is the birth of Jesus Christ Who is the Son of God. The birth of a child in a manger at Bethlehem changes the meaning of life and the purpose of time. Jesus Christ offers a new life to those who choose to follow Him; a life that culminates in friendship with God. There is no greater purpose in life than to become a friend of God.