"Many are the pains of the wicked,
but steadfast love surrounds those who trust in the Lord."
(Psalm 32:10)
The Prayer Book Psalter translates this as "mercy embraces" those who trust in the Lord (BCP, p. 625). I just love this verse. Of course the psalm speaks of the blessedness of being forgiven, of acknowledging our sins and not hiding them, of not being like a mule that must be curbed with bit and bridle or it will not stay near. Then this beautiful picture that steadfast love (hesed) surrounds those who trust in the Lord.
Peace is the principal blessing of the covenant, and steadfast love is the principal supply to bring about peace. "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases". "Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, his steadfast love endures forever." This is the chorus of faith, or of the faithful. What could we not endure if we knew the surrounding, embracing love of God? if we remained near to him and not pulling against his cords of love, the bit and bridle, to do our own thing our own way without him?
May God deepen our trust in his goodness and love, in his forgiveness and mercy, in his way and will,
which we see and experience in the person and presence of Jesus.
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