12 Yet even now—oracle of the LORD—
return to me with your whole heart,
with fasting, weeping, and mourning.13 Rend your hearts, not your garments,
and return to the LORD, your God,
For he is gracious and merciful,
slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love,
and relenting in punishment.14 Perhaps he will again relent
and leave behind a blessing
(Joel Chapter 2)
I love this passage and its focus on God’s continuous invitation to us, along with His great mercy. The passage indicates a whole-hearted turning toward Him, not simply a temporary entreaty seeking “a thing” from Him and then turning back away.
The last line is what is sticking with me the most this morning: “Perhaps he will relent and leave behind a blessing.”
Initially we think He will leave behind a blessing FOR us in the form of some good gift. And that certainly may be the case.
But also, it’s possible that the blessing He leaves behind IS “us” as new creations with new hearts and a new dedication to offering mercy to others.
LORD, help me to be merciful; teach me; use me to be a blessing to others. Amen.
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