Finding Constancy Amidst Change: Miss Connie’s Legacy and the Unchanging Love of Jesus

It is hard to believe that I graduated from college almost 15 years ago. I know some of you reading this may be saying, “Oh please, you’re just a baby.”

But it is hard to believe that it has been this long already, and a lot has changed at my alma mater. New buildings. New professors. Renovated spaces.

One thing that remains constant is the memories of the people that I went to school with: students, faculty members, and staff people.

Last week, my buddy sent me an article that was posted on our alma mater’s website recognizing one of the most consistent and beloved staff people, a lady we affectionately call Miss Connie.

The article describes her perfectly. She was the dining hall staffer who made omelets, waffles, and desserts (most notably, brownie explosions). She always had a smile on her face and remembered each student’s name and order.

One of the silliest memories to an outsider, but a fond one for alums, is when she finished someone’s waffle she would yell out, “Wafflerrrr!”

It brings a smile to my face even as I write this.

It is wonderful to know she is still loving on Yellow Jacket students and is being recognized for her love, her work, and her longevity. Even amid all the changes at the school, she is still there.

Malachi, an Old Testament prophet, records these words in Malachi 3:6a, “I am the Lord, I change not.”

This sentiment is echoed in Hebrews 13:8 reminding us that “Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow.”

Both verses are timely for the original readers and us today. In seasons of change and turmoil, it is easy to question God. The original readers were dealing with oppressive regimes, changing spiritual leaders, trying to figure out how to love one another, financial fidelity, and understanding everything ultimately belongs to God.

Hmmmm, is that the Biblical context or 2024?

There are a lot of things in this world that are the same but the manifestation is different. However, there are seasons of growth, change, and uncertainty. Life gets messy.

But it is nice to know that when the storms come and the change happens one thing is constant: Jesus. He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. He is consistent in His love, His grace, His mercy, His commands, and His power.

Jesus may not be yelling “wafflerrrr!” but he is a steady and consistent presence in our lives just like Miss Connie has been for so many years at my alma mater.

Lean into Jesus. He will not fail you. Be a person people can rely on. Seek to be a person who is consistently showing up in people’s lives and that people enjoy being around.

Anyway, I was just thinking…