“As beloved children, walk in Abba’s love—the love he lavished on us through the gift of his Son, Jesus. Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection are the meaning and measure of this love. It’s a love whose fragrance fills heaven and is the aroma of the Gospel in this world.” (Paraphrase of Ephesians 4:30–5:2)
Most merciful and grace-filled Father, we praise you for the love with which you love us, in which you have rooted us, and by which you are transforming us. You call it “lavish” (1Jn.3:1) and we call it glorious.
Free us from living only with a theoretical and theological awareness of being your dearly loved child. We want to be dazed and amazed, undone then re-done by the greatness of your steadfast, measureless love for us.
All day long, let us hear you serenading us in the Gospel, as your Spirit bears witness with our spirit that we are 100% yours, 100% seen, known, and loved, 100% destined to be fully like Jesus one Day. Hallelujah!
May the fragrant aroma of Jesus’ sacrifice be the alluring aroma of grace we emit wherever you have placed us. May your love not just direct our steps, may it permeate our hearts and shape how we relate to the wide range of people in our lives. We want to “smell” like the Gospel, not just talk about grace.
Constantly remind us, Abba: You’re not calling us to change or fix anybody, but to love everyone “as unto you”—as an act of worship and expression of hope. Your love for us never fails; our fear for people fails all the time. Your kindness led us to repentance. The only place our critical spirit, withheld compassion, anxieties, and aloofness lead anyone is away from us and you. So Very Amen.
