When Things Change

by Robert C. Veil, Jr.
Over the years, we have enjoyed staying at historic inns, bed-and-breakfasts, and special
hotels which are full of character. There is a charming inn in Maryland, right on the ocean, which
we used to enjoy when traveling out that way. It’s a 1930’s beauty, with a huge, gracious porch
fronting on the ocean. It’s furnished with period antiques, and bespeaks the gracious living and
relaxing hospitality of days gone by. It was owned and operated by a kind, older couple who always
remembered our name. But the last time we stayed there we were troubled by their suggestion that
they should probably retire.
Although this world is not the Christian’s home, I’m glad the Lord allows us to enjoy so
many blessings and the little pleasures which make life here so enjoyable from time to time.
Friends, for example, whom we have known over the years, who have added so much depth and
richness to our lives. Things—like the houses where we used to live, the cars we used to take on a
family vacation, the furniture we used to sit on and laugh together, and a thousand other things
which make this earthly existence so blessed. Places—like that cozy inn on the ocean, where so
many good memories have been created and nurtured.
Take people for example. My roommate in college was a special friend to me. Like mine,
his name was Bob. In addition to sharing a room on campus for almost 4 years, we often sat and
ate together in the cafeteria, double-dated together, frequently worshiped and attended chapel
together, played cards, laughed, joked, talked and dreamed together. We had no idea how our lives
would change after graduation. Who could’ve guessed that years later I would receive a telephone
call from Bob’s daughter telling me that a few days ago he had been killed in a tragic automobile
accident while on his way to work. Things changed–and they changed drastically.
Physical things change too. My dad used to often talk about the house in Pennsylvania where
he grew up. He could still describe the floor-plan, the front room, the kitchen in the back, bedrooms
upstairs, and how he used to stoke the coal furnace in the cellar. His grandparents lived next door,
and he could fondly remember that house as well. But things changed. Over the years, different
people came to live in the house. The old fencing and other features of the yard were altered. And
finally, in June of 1972 hurricane Agnes came and washed both houses completely away. When
we go back there now, things have changed.
Perhaps it’s good to remember that one of the few constants in life is change. Someone
described the weather around here by saying, “If you don’t like it, just wait a while. It will change.”
Yes, the weather changes, and so do all the circumstances pertaining to it. The one thing in our life
which does not change is God. He is the same yesterday, today, yes and forevermore, (Hebrews
13:8). It’s helpful to remember this when we start to become too wistful over people, places and
things which have changed. It’s good to remember that we have an anchor, that keeps the soul
stedfast and sure while the billows roll. And, amidst all the challenging vicissitudes of this early
life, it’s good to take heart in the God of stability, of permanence, of endurance. The God who
does not change.
A short time ago we decided to visit again that cozy inn on the ocean. We had been
attempting to reach the older couple who owned it, but had trouble connecting with them. The
website was different, and we were rerouted to another. After considerable difficulty, we were
finally able to make a reservation. When we checked in, we noticed that several things had
changed. It was under new management, which was—well, different. We noticed several things
which needed repair. Many of the antiques were gone, and much of the furniture had been
rearranged or removed. As I write these words, I am wondering how our stay will be this time. I
miss the old couple, who cared so lovingly about this special place.
When everyone else seems to be changing, I think it’s good to reaffirm our commitment to
stay with God. And, if we stay with Him, it’s important to remember that He will never leave or
forsake us. Remember that He will be with us even if all others leave. In the words of Henry
Francis Lyte, “Change and decay in all around I see; Oh! Thou who changest not, abide with me!”