Tuesday, April 15

Scripture 2 Kings 15-17, Psalm 105

The history of Israel is full of strife and battle. It has the makings of a violent and bloody movie or television series. It has it all, betrayal, anger, murder. How can these people be called Children of God? 

 Indeed, how can we? We may not necessarily do the actual things described in these stories, but our hearts tend towards self preservation and fear driven choices. In this, we can relate to God’s chosen people. Even so, through it all, God shows Himself faithful despite the choices made. This is comforting to me, and should be to all of us. There is a song by Jars of Clay where he is singing to his newborn son, telling him of the life lessons his son will face. He says:

“There will be liars, and thieves who take from you

Not to undermine the consequence but you are not what you do

When you need it most I have a hundred reasons why I love you.”

 I heard this song years ago and these lyrics have stuck with me. Our Father, God of Israel, Dad, Papa, sees us this way. These old stories are written for us, to show us the love of God despite choices made, words said, or harm done. Consequences? Yes, but we are still loved. Remember that today.

~Nathan Hurlbert

Daily Prayer Focus:

Those who practice bullying and discrimination.