Day 43

Exodus 34:1–35:9; Matthew 27:15-31; Psalm 33:12-22; Proverbs 9:1-6

AS WE OBSERVE the erratic back and forth of the children of Israel in Exodus, and the conspiracy to put Jesus to death in Matthew, we must also consider our own ways. Where do we locate our own hearts in these stories? Who would we be if we were living in them?

At times, this sort of disruption can sober us, but it also invites us forward, because we must consider the amazing ways in which the almighty God has put up with humanity with such intentionality and long-suffering. We don’t deserve such compassion and grace. Why does He love us at all?

In our reading from Psalms today, we obtained clues: “The LORD looks down from heaven and sees the whole human race. From his throne he observes all who live on the earth. He made their hearts, so he understands everything they do” (Psalm 33:13-15).

It’s a pretty radical thing to know that God understands us, when so often we are screaming just the opposite at the sky —but God does understand. Every molecule that constitutes our bodies and every good conviction and emotion that fills our hearts find its essence in God —for we were created in His image.

Of course He understands. He is our Father.

As we observe God giving the law, we must understand that He was not vengefully “laying down the law.” Rather, He was weaving into the fabric of this new culture the story of who He is and what it means to be set apart by Him. As we watch Jesus go to the cross in Matthew, we must humbly acknowledge just how committed God is to setting us apart.

“The LORD watches over those who fear him, those who rely on his unfailing love,” the Psalms also told us today (Psalm 33:18). May we find comfort and confidence in these words, for we are being fathered by God under His watchful eye. He understands us and was willing to give His life in order that we might know Him.

“Leave your simple ways behind, and begin to live,” Wisdom spoke today (Proverbs 9:6).

Perhaps it’s time to own our part of this relationship. God has done His part. Maybe it’s time to grow up and forward. God does understand us, and we are loved more than we can comprehend.

MEDITATION:

I am slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. I lavish unfailing love to a thousand generations. I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin.