The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness. Jer. 31:3
See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! 1 John 3:1
Dear heavenly Father, not just in the past, but in the present—in this very moment, you love us with an everlasting love. We cannot add to your love for us, nor take away from it, because it’s entirely generated, maintained, and guaranteed by what Jesus has done for us. Oh, the peace and joy, freedom and focus this gives us.
Indeed, such astonishingly good news doesn’t turn us into spiritual narcissists—spending most of our time pondering how “special” we are. Rather it compels us into a life of living and loving to your glory. The more convinced and secure we are in your love, the less we obsess about what others think about us; the less we foolishly look to success, stuff, and sex to fill up the God-shaped hole inside of us.
The more we are alive to your lavish love for us in Jesus, the less we worry, and the more we worship; the less we criticize others, and the more we humble ourselves; the less we manipulate, and the more we minister; the less busy and irritated we are, and the more unrushed, uncluttered time we spend with you.
Father, we also bless you for your perpetual kindness towards us today, and everyday—every nanosecond of every single day. Your kindness first drove us to repentance—that we might receive Jesus as our righteousness; and your kindness continues to drive us deeper into your commitment to make us like Jesus. Hallelujah, many times over!
By light of the Day, when you will complete your good work in us, we purpose to live this day to your glory. Free us to fully enjoy, and generously share, your love and kindness with others, all day long. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus magnificent and merciful name.
