September 25, 2021
Scripture: Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever! Psalm 118:1 ESV
Observation: The expression “steadfast love” of the Lord is repeated over two hundred times in the Old Testament. For the writers of the Hebrew Bible, this is an essential attribute of Yahweh. But what does steadfast love mean? The Hebrew word in question is “hesed,” which is most often translated as two words “steadfast love” but also conveys the idea of “covenant faithfulness.” By definition, “steadfast” means an object is immutable, unchanging. Thus, the Lord is faithful to fulfill his covenant with his chosen people, a covenant founded in unfailing, sacrificial love. Hence, the psalmist prophetically announces the ultimate expression of the Father’s sacrificial love revealed in his incarnate Son: “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. This is the LORD’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes (verse 22-23).”
Takeaway: We, like the psalmist, would do well to recall all the ways the Lord has demonstrated his steadfast love in our lives, whether it be rescuing us from our enemies (verses 5-7) or disciplining us (verse 18). With this in mind, the psalmist boldly states: “It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man (verse 8).” And we ultimately find refuge and rest on the cornerstone that the builders rejected.
Prayer: Thank you, Father, for your steadfast love fully expressed in your Son’s death and resurrection. It is marvelous in our eyes! In your mercy, when we are fearful of others or tempted to trust others over you, please help us to refocus on your Son, our cornerstone. Amen.
Rev. Gordon Green, M.Div., M.A. Counseling
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