A few weeks ago I wrote an article discussing the question of “Why god matters?” This question is one we all struggle with in the dark times of our lives. In my attempt to answer this question it struck me that a god doesn’t matter but the LORD does matter. The LORD matters because HE is an actual being with a personality, motivations and desires. We meet the LORD in the Bible and we see HE is righteous, creative and loving.
Earlier this series I wrote about the LORD being righteous. I looked at the judgement of the LORD upon us because of our unrighteousness and the LORD’s desire for us to live righteous lives. What I didn’t focus on at that time was the LORD’s love and mercy.
Sometimes I feel that love is a fundamental characteristic of the LORD. The LORD is creative because of love. The LORD is righteous because of love. This is why the LORD is continually making covenants with humanity and showing mercy to sinful people.
From the first stories we find in the Bible we see the LORD showing us love and mercy. In the Garden of Eden we sin. That sin caused our relationship with the LORD and creation to be broken. In that sin we did face the righteous judgement of the LORD but we were also shown love and mercy. Instead of being destroyed immediately we are spared. Instead of being cast out naked and helpless into the world we are provided with protection.
Ultimately the love of the LORD is different from what we think of as love. In Jesus the SON we see the LORD’s love in its purest form. While we were still sinners the Father sent the SON as an atoning sacrifice. Instead of waiting for us to be righteous the LORD acts on our behalf. This love is not simply a feeling but a choice and actions.
As you contemplate “Why the LORD matters?” I hope these short articles help.
