God's Mercy and Lovingkindness
By Gregg Harris

"The Lord's lovingkindness indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning: Great is Your faithfulness."- Lamentations 3:22-23 (NASB)

I have often told people that, while I have a seminary degree, being a parent has taught me more about God's disposition toward us than all my theological studies. Being a father helps me understand the Father's heart. I understand in practical and daily terms what it means to love your child with new compassion and kindness each day. Yesterday's failures matter little to me when I see my daughter in the morning. I want to do everything in my power to help her grow and improve and experience all that is good in life. I have no interest in revisiting her part failures and reminding her of what is not right in her life. Each morning when I see Rachel, I want to embrace her and tell her how much I love her and how glad I am that she is my child.

I assure you that I am not a perfect father. But even in my human weakness, I can understand the unfailing nature of the Father's love. Jesus expressed it well when He said, "If you, then, though you are evil know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him!" (Matthew 7:11)

As you begin each day, develop the habit of consciously receiving these gifts. Embrace the fresh life and power that they bring. When you open your eyes in the morning, rejoice in the renewal of God's lovingkindness and tender compassion for you. God will continue to bring these gifts to you all day long. Fill your mind with the hope that when you wake tomorrow, He will be waiting with new mercies and kindness to shower upon you.