“Change is the only constant in life.” – Heraclitus
2020 has been a year of ridiculous worldwide change. But leaving this apocalyptic in the rear view mirror won’t mean less change. Change is a normative part of human existence. In order to thrive as people, we must learn to consistently navigate change well. Here’s my four keys;
1. The story you live in determines the story you live out. (Story)
“We are not the things that have happened to us, we are the stories we tell ourselves about the things that have happened to us.” – Joel McKerrow
“There is no such thing as just a story.” – Rachel Held Evans
We make meaning of the world by the stories we tell ourselves. When facing change in life, we must place the change in the larger narrative. For followers of Jesus, the Great Story is that Jesus has entered into our suffering (the cross) and renewed it (the resurrection). We have a sure and certain hope that He is making all things new. He is bringing heaven and earth back together again. There will be a time where he will “wipe away every tear” (Rev 21:
2. The people around you matter. (Community)
“The primary way to prepare for the unknown is attend to the quality of our relationships.” – Tod Bolsinger
“A coal can not burn for long aside from the fire. Neither can we outside community.” – Robert Mulholland
The best way to become an expert navigator of change, is to invest in deep authentic relationships. This takes time. It’s hard. It’s messy. People are annoying. But, gee, is it worth it. Relationships are the irreducible essence of life. Your level of healthy, integrated community determines your ability to tackle the harder things in life.
3. Keep some rhythms that ground you. (Habits)
“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” – Mathew 11:28-30 (The Message)
When your world is changing, having some habits and rhythms that keep you grounded is vitally important. Rhythms like good sleep, exercise, spending time outside, eating decently, sabbath, prayer, reading the bible, and connection with people are some good places to start. What rhythms are holding you right now? Maybe Jesus is inviting you to explore some new unforced rhythms of grace.
4. Invite the Holy Spirit in. (Spirit)
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23
What better way to navigate the changes of life than with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control? Take time daily to invite the Holy Spirit to fill you again. Invite Him to be your guide. Invite him to grow fresh fruit in your soul. The only way for this to happen is to literally take a moment to ask Him. Pray this Galatians 5:22-23 and see what happens.