No one really knows for sure what the future holds

What does 2014 have in store for us? I have seen some predictions for the coming year.

The predictions I’ve seen include a better economy, unless there is unrest in economically sensitive areas of the world. Then, those predicting say, we could face more economic challenges. The predictions I’ve seen talk about continued political struggle in the United States during this coming election year. But no one claims to know the outcome of this struggle. The predictions I’ve seen for 2014 suggest there will be continuing confusion surrounding the new Affordable Health Care Act. But no one really knows if there will be more delays, surprises and challenges.

In other words, most of those making predictions are suggesting a time of uncertainty. No one really knows for sure what the future holds. We do know from our past experience that the future holds both challenges and blessings. Actually, even in the midst our present experiences, we don’t always understand what is happening until we have a chance to think on what has occurred. So, how can we know about the future?

I can tell you something that is sure in the coming year. In the midst of an unsure, confusing and changing world, God does not change. In Malachi 3:6, God tells us, “I the LORD do not change.”

In Hebrews 13:8 we are told, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

So, when God says that he created the world with order and wisdom, in power and love, and that he continues to watch over his creation, that does not change. God does continue to watch over his creation. When God says that he loves us, even as sinners, so that he sent his only son into the world, that sacrificial love of God does not change. When God says that Jesus cares for his people as a shepherd cares for his sheep, and that Jesus keeps his sheep in his loving hand in such a way that Jesus can say, “no one can snatch them out of my hands” (John 10:28), we remain safe in the loving hands of our Lord, no matter what is happening in the world around us.

What does 2014 hold for us? God knows, but no one in this world is really sure of what will happen in the coming year. We do know that in the midst of this uncertain future, God is unchanging.

There is an old pithy saying: “I don’t know what the future holds, but … I know who holds the future.” May the assurance of God’s love and presence bless you in 2014.

Jonathan Rockey is pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Palmer. Contact him at jonrock53@mtaonline.net.

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