Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! Luke 13:34
What a heartbreak we must be to Jesus! He longs to bring us together under His love and protection, and we are not willing. God has felt this before, when we turned away in disobedience at the very beginning. But He was willing to come after us with what scholars call “prevenient grace”, God’s love that seeks us out before we even know of it.
Can you feel God reaching out to you today? He is always ready to welcome you as a valued member of His family. While our resolve is weak, God’s is strong and constant, His love for us unchanging. When we turn to God for the peace we so desperately need, He comforts us. Trust God to gather us under His wings of love forever!
Loving Lord, forgive our selfishness and our wayward behavior. We want to return to You, to be part of the work of Your kingdom. Bless us as we go into the world in Your name. Amen.