Imparting your heart to others
‘The LORD has made a solemn promise, and he will not abandon you, for he has decided to make you his own people. As for me, the LORD forbid that I should sin against him by no longer praying for you. Instead, I will teach you what is good and right for you to do. Obey the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart. Remember the great things he has done for you.’
(verses 22-24)
If today were your last day with the people you love, what would you say, what wisdom would you impart to them to stand them in good stead in life? In this text Samuel has some important words of advice for you. He sums up your life as a child of God.
God has made you a sure promise that he will never abandon you as you struggle to keep going on the journey of a faithful life. This is because he has already decided that you are part of him, you are his chosen child. Your only response can be unswerving obedience to him in serving others and to always call to heart and mind what he has done for you in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus.
This response of obedience in service and constant reflection on the Lord in his word is the fabric of our faith life. Jesus Christ is our life and our future. Maybe this would be a good thing to impart to the people you love today.
Heavenly Father, thank you for all that you have done for me. Give me single-minded trust and whole-hearted obedience today. Amen.
by Adrian Kitson, in ‘Renewed Hope for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 2000)
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