As I sit here today ready to write this blog, I began to think about the past two weeks of visiting family and friends.  Our vacation began with the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum in Kentucky; then to visit family and friends. We enjoyed every minute.

As much fun as it is to travel and see everyone, however, as usual, it is also good to be home again.  We are back to our routine of the usual activities of cleaning the car, yard work, cleaning house, and eating at home!  Taking a break from normal responsibilities of a home gives us a fresh outlook on life.  We begin to see the world a little different, even our own little part of the world.

Thinking about family – have you ever noticed similar traits in your family?  Maybe you walk like your dad, or have your mother’s smile.  I am told I look a lot like my Mom, and when I look at pictures, I realize just now true that is!  The same mannerisms are passed from one generation to another.  Some you perhaps don’t mind and others you wish to change.  We are reminded of how wonderful it is to have family.  As interesting as it is to recognize our likeness with family members, we should give special attention to becoming more like our God.

Our world changes over the years and sometime greatly in just a matter of days or hours.  I find comfort and peace in knowing that Jesus never changes, He is the same today, yesterday, and forever.  So no matter what situation I might face, His Word will always have the answer and it will always be the same.  His love is never-ending.  His mercies are new every morning.  His forgiveness is constant. His power is always available.  His presence is always with us.   He never changes but He does expect us to change – change into His image.  The more time we spend learning of Him, the more like Him we become; it is that simple.

We need to conduct our lives the same way Jesus did: extending love, mercy, and forgiveness to others; believing for his power to continue to heal the sick and deliver those oppressed by the devil; and always allowing God’s presence to work in our lives to bring glory to Him. It is our daily lives that give witness of God’s great love.  The more we live for Him the more we become like Him.

Hebrews 13:8 – Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

1 Corinthians 13:8 – Love never ends.  (God is love, there is no end to God and there is no end to His Love).

Lamentations 3:22-3 – Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

Psalm 86:5 – For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in mercy to all those who call upon you.

Matthew 28:18 – And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, all power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.  (Because He is still present with us, His power is still present to heal and to deliver).

Hebrews 13:5 – I will never leave you, nor forsake you.