Remember, O Lord, your compassion and unfailing love, which you have shown from long ages past. Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth. Remember me in the light of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O Lord.
Psalm 25:6-7 NLT
When a global crisis emerges, such as coronavirus, we find ourselves considering the character of God’s “unfailing love”. Firstly, we are confronted with our own fears and anxieties. Many spoke in the early weeks of increased levels of anxiety, both for themselves and their families.
I recognised that even within the Oratory’s prayer life, I could be equally subject to such worry. Yet, I also found my mechanisms established over the years served me well. God has me in his embrace, a place of safety and comfort. I can retain my confidence that my life is “hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:3)and, no matter what befalls, nothing can separate me from God’s love (Romans 8:35).
Perhaps the problem is that we too easily become drawn into the rhythms of life and lose sight of God. When shocked by events that threaten our way of life, we find our roots are not sunk deeply into the soil of God’s compassionate love. We struggle to draw sufficient nourishment from God. As a gardener, when I discover a plant is struggling, I don’t immediately discard it, I fight for it, seeking to revive and restore it. More often than not, this works. I once had a bay tree that completely withered and died, or so it appeared. I pruned it heavily and within a short time new leaves began to grow from the stump. It may be that all we need is to have a lot of the deadwood removed, to return to an active pursuit of God.
If God’s love is unfailing, regardless of your situation, you can place your confidence in him.
QUESTION
How can you best live for the moment?
PRAYER
I place my confidence in you, Lord, for whatever I face today.