Time Change

Daylight Saving Time began at 2:00 a.m. Though the idea dates back to Benjamin Franklin—who in 1784 humorously suggested that waking earlier in summer could conserve candle usage—the practice was not widely adopted until World War I, when nations implemented it to save fuel during wartime. Today, research shows DST produces minimal energy savings. Even so, it continues in many places, partly to extend evening daylight for leisure activities, and with the hope of reducing crime and traffic accidents.

However, evidence suggests the time change may do more harm than good. According to Johns Hopkins University, shifting the clock forward is associated with increased risks of heart attacks and strokes, mood disturbances, mental health struggles, higher hospital admissions, stress-related inflammation, weakened immune response, metabolic disruption, and even rises in fatal auto accidents and workplace injuries. A single lost hour of sleep and a one-hour disruption to our routines can significantly affect the body.

It is striking how difficult it can be to adjust to such a small change. For many, change of any kind is challenging. We fear it, resist it, and worry about what it might bring. Even positive changes—breaking a bad habit, starting a new opportunity, or pursuing personal growth—are often uncomfortable as we face the unfamiliar. Yet change is unavoidable. Life brings both welcome and unwelcome changes: a new job, a difficult diagnosis, the birth of a child, the end of a relationship. Communities shift with construction projects or rising prices. Nations and the world experience natural disasters, policy changes, and global events. It can feel as though instability outweighs certainty.

However, scripture makes it clear that amid constant change, there is One who remains the same. Malachi 3:6 declares, “I the Lord do not change.” Hebrews 13:8 affirms, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.” God’s character, promises, and power are steadfast.

So as you wearily adjust to the time change, rather than lament that lost hour of sleep, be reminded and comforted knowing that whatever changes may occur in the coming days, God’s presence, grace, mercy, faithfulness, and love for you will never change.