Psalm 136:1-3

Read Psalm 136:1-3

My love language is giving gifts. Picking out or making something I know a loved one will enjoy brings me way more joy than receiving a gift myself. And once that gift is found, I have this anticipation, waiting to see the face of my friend or family member as they open it, hoping they know just how loved they are. Now, I am an amazing gift giver (ask anyone), but I am in no way capable of demonstrating the kind of love God does by giving us the gift of Himself. There is nothing that can separate us from His love, nothing that can change, limit, or end His love. 

His steadfast love endures forever. This line is repeated throughout this psalm, following an imperative to give thanks and a reminder of how God has shown His perfect love since creation and throughout history. This Advent season we have been waiting and anticipating the arrival of God’s gift of love, in flesh, through his son Jesus. We have placed our hope in God as the ultimate giver of life, felt the peace that comes from trusting in Him, and experienced joy in knowing He is faithful in every season. And now the commemoration of the gift of Jesus is almost here! Scripture tells us God sent his son because He loved the world. This isn’t a one time gift either, but a daily and everlasting gift of love, one we get to accept with no conditions. Christ City, let us reflect on the awesomeness of this gift, give thanks to the Lord, and as image bearers of God go forth and love as He has loved us!

- Christine L.