Friday, December12, 2014

HOSEA 12-14:

In theses last 3 chapters of Hosea the focus turns to God's restoration. Hosea highlights the life of Jacob and how though he was condemned for his sin "as a man he struggled with God. He struggled with the angel and overcame him; he wept and begged for his favor."(12:3-4) After further references to saving them from Egypt and all the ways they are blessed he recounts again their destruction because of their outright rebellion and sin.  Once Israel turns to repent from following idols "We will never again say 'Our gods' to what our hands have made, for in you the fatherless find compassion."(14:3) God's response, "I will heal their waywardness and love them freely, for my anger has turned away from them. (14:4) Hosea ends the chapter with sage advice and warning.  

"Who is wise? He will realize these things. Who is discerning? He will understand them. The ways of the Lord are right; the righteous walk in them, but the rebellious stumble in them."

REVELATION 2:

John begins chapter 2 with letters to churches, the chapter actually contains 4 letters.  In each of these he commends them, but then warns them of specific struggles they are facing.  All of them are a form of turning away, following idols and or becoming complacent.   He warns of future suffering, yet gives hope in the end. "Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life."(2:10).   

JOURNAL:

Redemption, finally! Although God is furious and Israel has continued to betray and turn away...all it takes is to ask and God is ready to forgive and restore.  One of the miracles of life is experiencing it as a child and then as a Father.  I understand so much better the absolute frustration when my boys refuse to listen and that refusal brings them harm.  I also know how my heart melts when they truly turn and are remorseful and seek my advice.  To see that play out in God's relationship with Israel, is such an amazing display of love, more-so though is God's grace to let me experience a fraction of his hurt and his joy in the lives of my own children.  I understand better my own sin and my own rebellion and how God's commands are only to help me, never to hurt me.  

As a parent I often feel like I am screaming as Jerry does to his client Rod Tidwell in the movie Jerry Maguire..."Help me help you..." I can only smile when I realize that is all God wants.  Though that help may not be to fulfill my earthly agenda, it ultimately is for my good. 

"God loves you! So do I! Make it a great day!