December 26, 2023
"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.”
The steadfast love of God. The Hebrew word hesed. Translated by others as God’s lovingkindness. Both translations of the word attempt to communicate a deep and unwavering love. This passage in Lamentations reflects God’s love for us even as we reject his lordship in our lives. He continually pursues us and seeks to restore us to right relationship with him. In Christ we experience the never-ending love and mercy of the Lord. Jesus made these realities of God tangible for us. We can take confidence in God’s eternal love and faithfulness. Knowing that God’s mercy is new every morning and the blood of Christ has paid the penalty for sin, we can live free from the guilt and shame of sin in our lives. We are freed by the love of God to live our lives in service to him and experience real hope, peace, joy and love.
Lord, give me faith to believe that because of your love for me you are merciful. Convict me of my sin so that I may repent; and remove the guilt and shame so that I may be of use in your kingdom.