Read Psalm 136:1-9 1Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever. 2Give thanks to the God of gods, for his steadfast love endures forever. 3Give thanks to the Lord of lords, for his steadfast love endures forever; 4to him who alone does great wonders, for his steadfast love endures forever; 5to him who by understanding made the heavens, for his steadfast love endures forever; 6to him who spread out the earth above the waters, for his steadfast love endures forever; 7to him who made the great lights, for his steadfast love endures forever; 8the sun to rule over the day, for his steadfast love endures forever; 9the moon and stars to rule over the night, for his steadfast love endures forever;
This psalm is the “Great Hallel,” the “Great Praise.” It invites the hearers (or readers) to respond by declaring the eternal love of God for his people. His steadfast love endures forever – His love has no end.
This is what sets apart our God from all others. He is God of gods because he alone loves unconditionally, and he alone loves eternally. The god of Islam is not motivated by love, eastern religions see love as a cause of pain, and pagan deities only love themselves. Only the God of the Bible as revealed in Christ offers a God who IS love. Who created everything out of love. Who offers his love to any and all who would receive it?
To live is Christ means learning to reflect on the creation around us and see the love of Christ for us. It all points to him and to his cross. All creation is by him, through him, and unto him (Col. 1:16). The relationships between the land and sea, the sun and moon, the sky and water, all reveal the nature of love. Sacrificial love. Self-giving love.
Prayer. Jesus, help me to pause once in a while and ponder your creation as the reflection of your forever love. Amen.
To Live is Christ 