Father, today I wish to remember that this conversation is not my own idea, but a response to Your invitation.
I am realizing, Lord, that You are so mighty, You can afford to be gentle. Your strength is not shown in a force that destroys, but in a tenderness that lifts up the broken. Your heart is turned toward us, we who are weak and weary.
You are the shepherd who cares for His flock with incredible love and attention to every detail.
“He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.” (Isaiah 40:11)
Today, I am not merely interested in what You have done for me; I long to understand how You feel toward me. I wish to immerse myself in Your heart, Jesus, which is the very embodiment of the Gospel. I want to experience this river of mercy that flows from Your throne, bringing life to my parched soul.
Today I ask You, Lord, help me to believe in this truth, so that my heart will have no more hidden corners where Your love is not permitted to enter. Help me to accept that You rejoice in showing mercy. It is not Your duty, but Your delight.
“Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy.” (Micah 7:18)
I know this truth seems too good to be true. My reason resists this immeasurable love, for I cannot comprehend it. Yet the Holy Scripture tells me plainly that the initiative was not mine.
“This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” (1 John 4:10)
Your love is astounding in its abundance and capacity. When I contemplate its vastness, it takes my breath away. This realization is the medicine for my broken heart. It is the balm that heals the wounds I have inflicted upon myself and those inflicted upon me by others.
And when I return to You, when I turn from my wayward paths, something incredible happens in heaven. You rejoice.
“I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” (Luke 15:7)
Thank you for this revelation, Lord. Thank you for opening my eyes to the beauty of Your love. I simply wish to warm myself by the fire of Your affection, in the warmth of Your presence.
May this truth about Your heart carry me through this day. May it be an anchor for my soul and a source of strength in every trial.
Amen.
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