Covenant

To the Father. From a daughter.

Covenant. It feels foreign and antique. Yet, it also feels desirable. A longing for faithfulness and safety in relationship. Something You offer so freely, and I reject so quickly.

I am not steadfast no matter how many promises or resolutions I make. I consistently choose my own way, distorting the truth to believe Your rules are no longer right, Your laws no longer true, and Your commandments no longer good. Your response? Faithful invitation to steadfast covenant, knowing how easily I will step out of the goodness of that relationship.

The greatest benefit of that covenant is presence. Why does knowing the safety of Your consistent presence lead me to abuse that faithfulness and run rather than rest? Yet even in my running, Your pursuit is evident. I am repeatedly drawn back to the manna that only You can provide and the miraculous water from the rock. You are ready to forgive, gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love. No matter my rebellion, You remain. Your faithfulness does not allow You to forsake. Your love compels You to linger.

THIS is deep and pure covenant. One that I cannot hope to maintain because of my fallenness, but one that you sustain through your Son. You simply call me to stop, see, and surrender. Stop running, see your steadfast pursuit, and surrender to your faithful presence.

Nevertheless, in your great mercies, you did not make an end of them or forsake them, for you are a gracious and merciful God. Nehemiah 9:31 (ESV)