The majesty and incandescent power of God is staggering. More than staggering, it is unimaginable. “The stars are the work of your fingers,” said the Psalmist. He barely touched what he was describing. Reality? The Big Bang came from his hands…time came to be from his intention…space is a consequence of his purpose…and matter is the stuff of his creation. We literally cannot imagine the power at his disposal. He can do anything!
But he doesn’t. I am struck by the incredible restraint of God.
He can show his power in such a way that we cannot not believe in him. He can move the stars to form the words, “I am here!” He can suspend the natural order to perform miracle after miracle. He can make us so that we have no choice but to acknowledge him and love him with all our heart.
But he doesn’t. Why is that?
Think about this with me…if you had the power to make someone love you, would you do it?
No? Why not?
Because enforced love is not love, but only a sentimental form of tyranny. And so we see the restraint of God. He uses words. He speaks through others. He implores. He inhabits mortal history. He takes on the role of father. He woos us with truth, with promise, and with the assurance of his everlasting love. And then, incredibly, he sacrifices for us.
I am struck by the incredible restraint of God. It is the source of all freedom. And when I decide that I will love him with all my heart, soul, mind and strength, that love is uncoerced, pure, and happy…
and then……….. both I and my love for God become eternal.
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