Unreciprocated Love

In midautumn of the second year of King Darius’s reign, the Lord gave this message to the prophet Zechariah son of Berekiah and grandson of Iddo. “I, the Lord, was very angry with your ancestors. Therefore, say to the people, ‘This is what the Lord Almighty says: Return to me, and I will return to you, says the Lord Almighty.’ ”

Zechariah 1:1-3

Unreciprocated love normally fades. But the Lord endured a one-sided love relationship for generations. His love for his people continued to burn long after they had abandoned him. They ran after other gods, yet God remained faithful to his covenant. Finally, he stood at a distance. No longer would he pour out his love and protection on a people who had forgotten his existence. It didn’t take long for the people to see that without God, they had nothing. Several years went by, and then one day through the prophet Zechariah, God sent a love letter to his children, which spelled out the terms of their new relationship. He wanted more than unreciprocated love. Affection is a two-way street, and God called for a reunion of the hearts —nothing less would do. You can offer service or loyalty or even sacrifice to God, but more than anything else he desires that you love him. He is faithful to you. He loved you so much that he gave you his Son and forgave all your sins. What he wants is for you to return that love. What he wants is your heart.

PRECIOUS FATHER, you are the almighty Lord of the universe, and yet you are my friend. May I not grieve your Spirit but rather return the love that you have given me without reservation. I give you my heart, Lord. Thank you for walking with me during difficult times. I rejoice in the peace and shelter of your love that comes only from knowing you.

It is but right that our hearts should be on God, when the heart of God is so much on us. RICHARD BAXTER (1615–1691)

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The One Year Bible Readings for today are Zechariah 1:1-21; Revelation 12:1-17; Psalm 140:1-13; and Proverbs 30:17.