Love 2

Love 2

The Lord appeared from of old to me [Israel], saying, Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with loving kindness have I drawn you and continued My faithfulness to you. Jeremiah 31:3 AMPC

It would appear that today's extract is a form of testimony; a confirmation of the nature of God Himself. It is one thing to know God as love; it is a different thing altogether to experience that love on a very personal level. God's love transcends generations of families, as can be seen in today's extract. Centuries after God entered into covenant with Abraham and his descendants, Israel is still remembering the love, grace and mercy of God. Indeed, God is a generational God. Nothing He does is for you alone, but is a seed from which the children coming after you will benefit from.

And I note that nothing is said about this love being based on reciprocity. It's not as if God based his love on my being worthy of it or my responding to the love. He makes an offer, but gives me time and grace to respond of my own free will. His love has always been on display, free of charge and with eternal value but He will not force his love on me. That is a decision I must take myself. And while I have time, I can decide either way: take him at his offer or reject Him. He continues to show love to all, no matter what we do. His rain falls on all, the land yields its increase for all who sow, and life's benefits accrue to all men no matter their allegiances.

But a day is coming when love will not be the major consideration but judgement. At that time, the reward or punishment for my decision will apply. We see God as love not as the Law, we see God as the Lamb not the Lion, we see God as an advocate, not as a judge. He's actually both extremes, but while we still have time, we control the narrative. When natural life ends, God controls the narrative. If today was your last day, how would you want to meet the judge of all men? Have you responded to His love? His time of favour is here.