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Today's Lenten Devotion
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God's Love
For we will surely die and become like water spilled on the ground, which cannot
be gathered up again. Yet God does not take away a life; but He devises means,
so that His banished ones are not expelled from Him.
-- 2 Samuel 14:14
What a relief! That is what this verse is. A relief. A relief that God has factored into His plan means -- plural -- so there are multiple ways in which people are not removed from Him. This is encouraging; for you and for me, and for any persons for whom we pray who are far from God.
While this verse offers solace, the beginning part of the verse is a truth not to be ignored. Each one of us will surely die and be spilled out -- and there is no way to be gathered again into a whole. When water spills out, it evaporates. It is gone. It is as if it was never there. It cannot become a full form again. But those who believe in God, believe in the God who has a way with water. He parts seas, turns water into wine, and makes men able to walk upon water. Yes, God has plans for not taking away life but for allowing individuals opportunities - sometimes multiple opportunities - to return to God and not be separated from him—in earthly fellowship and for eternal life.
Only love could devise means that bring one back to the fold. God's love cares enough to do so. God's love arises from His heart; a standard of love that you and I spend a lifetime attempting to emulate. This standard always bends down. It bends to meet the ones who do not recognize that this life is the once in a lifetime chance to know God and secure a rich and eternal relationship with Him. This standard bends down to take the lower seat when hearts have taken high pride in accomplishments and decisions. This standard of love bends downs so that all are included. God's love does not want sin to evaporate hope, cause earthly separation from God, and eternal banishment from Him.
Lent is a time of return to God. A time for those who believe in Him and have strayed from obedient paths to get back on course. It is a time for those who disbelieve to take advantage of the loving and low state of Jesus so Jesus can meet sin and cover it with His pure blood. The blood that fell on Calvary covered the worst of offenses man did and would commit, even offenses disguised in the best of intentions.
Without belief in Jesus, nothing counts. Nothing. Lenten reminders are means God has devised for people to be aware of actions and make necessary corrections. Lent, with all of its truths about sin, death, and forgiveness, remains a comforting season that speaks to the strength and integrity of God's love. His unquestionable, unchanging, sure, and remarkable love.
Lord, we will surely die one physical death. Until then, we each have one chance to live life in belief in You. Thank You for the many times You prepare news ways of return to You for our good. Thank You for times of witness by Your own that may lead others to trust Your love and be saved from sin. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Chris Ann Waters
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