For if there had been nothing wrong with that first covenant, no place would have been sought for another. Hebrews 8:7 NIV

 

The child knew he should not do it. He had repeatedly heard the rule all his life. But to his parent´s surprise and disappointment, he stepped over the line. He disobeyed. The little boy´s father was right there when it happened. His anger quickly boiled up and sharp words flew to his mouth. But, this time he checked himself. He had been reading his Bible. He managed to stop the harsh words just before they flew out. He stood up from what he was doing. He went over to his little boy. The little boy cringed waiting for an explosion of anger. But this time it did not come. Dad stooped down and took his little boy in his arms. He held him instead and told his child that he loved him. Have we felt God´s arms wrap around us even when we didn´t deserve it?

The rule was necessary for the child to know how to behave. But the child in this instance was not able to follow the rules of the house even if he had wanted to. His father would have been right in disciplining his boy and correcting behavior that was unwanted in a caring or Christian home. But following strict rules does not always bring us into direct contact with the One whose will we are trying to please. A hug, a sacrifice of time and sentiment, these bring far more in the way of educating young souls. God has given us a wonderful new Way to learn and improve. He gave us Jesus! Shall we throw ourselves into that embrace today?

 

Dear Lord,

Thank You for forgiving us and showing us love even while we turn to You. Let Your compassion save us from our ways and bring us ever closer to You, we pray!

Amen