First Reading: 1Jn 3:7-10; Psalm: 98 R. v. 3cd; Gospel: Jn 1:35-42

THE BEAUTY OF CHANGE

BY FR VALENTINE NNAMDI EGBUONU, MSP

Change they say is the only constant thing in life. It is one of the inevitable experiences of life. Change is beautiful but depending on what kind of change. Growing up and getting older is a blessing. But those who failed to live a good life may have a different opinion if their lives are full of pain and regrets. When fortune smiles on a poor man who suddenly becomes rich, he is happy and thankful. But when a very wealthy man who has tasted wealth for years goes broke and becomes poor; what a terrible life it would be.

But the truth remains that pain and regret are the consequences of misused opportunities. When we are faced with the reality of change and looked back and saw that our past were not wasted but very well utilised, this can bring comfort and healing. But always and everywhere, it is not easy to be relegated to a lower place having tasted the first place before. John was so famous and commanded so much followership and authority prior to the appearing of Jesus. But the coming of Jesus changed everything. John was not scared of this change. He even spoke highly of Jesus that two of his disciples left him and followed Jesus. Humility is acknowledging some qualities we do not have. And a beautiful past fears no change.

In life, we should be disposed to the reality of change. It is the true mark of humility. If you are a renowned orator today; somebody will outdo you in speech tomorrow. If you are a champion in what you do, be ready for a sudden appearing of another champion with a better quality. This reality is inevitable. But we can only find joy and fulfilment despite any change if we had used our past opportunities well. John as a precursor of Jesus changed many lives by his preaching and baptism. So he was not scared to say “He must increase, but I must decrease.” (Jn 3:30). Make good use of your opportunities now; so that when it is no longer there, you can look back, feel fulfilled and be thankful to God.       

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Lord Jesus, give us the grace and courage to accept the changes in life; and the humility to acknowledge them. Amen.