ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
July 2, 2026
Have you ever noticed that a single change will often lead to more changes? Maybe you were able to see those other changes on the horizon, but other times you get on the other side of a big change thinking you are done with change, and only then realize how many more things there are to change. There is a reason we are hesitant to initiate change. People stay in unhealthy work environments, yes, because they like a paycheck, but also because there is a known to the unhealthy work environment. If I change, which I know I should, it will require other changes. How many? Is it easier to just persevere with what is known instead of risking the unknown? Let me be clear—I do not have a simple answer to that question. The old adage of the grass always looking greener on the other side has some real truth to it. Many of us have made a change with immense expectation of things being so much better, yet once we see things from the vantage point of the change, we are asking ourselves how to go back. Not to oversimplify, but it feels as if loving our neighbor as we love ourselves might not be a bad place to start. Sometimes loving ourselves is hard, but if we are truly going to love ourselves, then some hard (maybe even painful) changes need to occur… which could be followed by more changes. But also choosing to love our neighbor may require us to change in some uncomfortable ways, as one change may lead to another and another.
I remember as a teenager having to change my mindset in regard to those with development disabilities. I’d like to think I was always compassionate, but probably in my own arrogance and insecurity, I probably judged and looked down upon others based upon differences that should have made no difference, at least in regard to my opinions. Then I had an experience when I was 15 or 16 that called into question some of my judgmental attitudes. The following summer, I volunteered at two camps for adults with special needs, which only intensified the need for change in my own mind. Suddenly, one change led me to another crossroads where I needed to think about a change. Where else in my life was I unconsciously looking down on people or unaware of microaggressions that were birthed out of my own ignorance? On the journey toward loving our neighbor, there are moments when, like the Apostle Paul, scales fall from our eyes, and we find ourselves seeing things we had never before seen. Yes, change is hard, and it’s not unusual for us to be change-averse. And though loving self and neighbor may require some change, the pursuit of those two important ideals of faith may also allow us to better love God.
As you love me unconditionally, O Great God of the Universe, I pray for wisdom, insight, and courage when it comes to change. It’s not about changing simply for the sake of change. However, there are times when I know change is needed, yet I avoid it at all costs. Help me to trust your presence as I take uncomfortable steps into what feels like the unknown, even when it is nothing more than taking a closer look at my own attitude or motivation. Ultimately, I desire to love myself, neighbor, and you, Merciful God, with more tenacity and joy. Amen.
