If you have ever watched a parent or someone else close to you reach the end of their life, you will no doubt recognize that their perspective changes when death is imminent. Although some fear the end, many people see each day that they are still alive as a gift to be treasured.
Why don’t all people see life from that perspective? The writer of Lamentations certainly did. The verses quoted come from the middle of chapter three where he describes his difficult life, using phrases like, ”He has made my skin and flesh grow old...” (verse 4), to “He has filled me with bitterness and given me a bitter cup of sorrow to drink” (verse 15). Yet, in the midst of such suffering, the author can still speak about God’s mercy.
The perspective that he shares focuses on the idea that God doesn’t treat us as our sins deserve. Face it, folks, our lives are filled with decisions or actions that are destructive to ourselves and others. No matter what we desire, or how good our intentions are, we mess up and deserve to face the consequences for those actions. That’s precisely why we need a merciful God!
When we truly recognize the fact that God overlooks our sins in His desire to see everyone come into a relationship with Him, then each morning and the prospects of a new day should fill us with hope. What a treasure that is!
Heavenly Father, thank you that you are faithful to forgive our sins and allow us to experience your mercy each day. Amen.
Go Deeper – Why not start each day with a prayer of gratitude to God, acknowledging that your life is a gift?
Photo Credit: Kien Do