Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings. Hebrews 13:8-9a

In the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical The King And I, there is a song whose words I have grown to appreciate.

The song is called "A Puzzlement," and it begins with the king saying this: "When I was a boy World was better spot. What was so was so, What was not was not. Now I am a man; World have changed a lot. Some things nearly so, Others nearly not. There are times I almost think I am not sure of what I absolutely know . . . ."

I can understand the king's puzzlement. Last week the Associated Press carried a story on how, in Columbia, South Carolina's Rock Hill School, people attending commencement exercises were told to "hold their applause." Some people didn't. Seven of them were arrested for cheering loudly.

Although I'm sure there is more to the story, I remember when cheering for young people who had accomplished something was encouraged.

Yes, I can understand the king's puzzlement about changing times.

Last week the Associated Press carried another story. This one told how hundreds of homosexual couples were applying for wedding licenses in California. I remember when, legally and spiritually, marriage was reserved for a man and a woman who were making a lifetime commitment to each other.

Like the king said, "World have changed a lot. Some things nearly so, others nearly not."

Unlike the king who found the world changing all around him, with nothing secure or solid to trust, there are some things that I know and of which I remain sure.

The writer to the Hebrews speaks of two things we can believe: First, Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. The sacrifice He made with His life, the blood He shed in His death, are still just as cleansing as they ever were. By the blood of God's Son, we are forgiven of sin and can be adopted as children into the family of faith.

But there is more. I can also be sure the world will do its best to undercut the truth of God.

That is the warning of this devotion's text: trust the changeless love of Jesus Christ and refuse to be led astray by diverse and strange teachings.

As Hebrews says (10:23) "Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful." That's something, boy or man, I can be sure of.

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, I give thanks that in this time of changing morals, values, and what goes as "truth" You have given me salvation and something solid I can hold onto which I can believe. I thank You. In Your Name. Amen.

In Christ I remain His servant and yours,

Today's Bible Readings: Song 4-5    Acts 7:1-21

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