Dear Church,
The book of Lamentations is divided into five poetic laments about the wretched condition of the people of Judah, the destruction of the temple, and the destruction of Jerusalem. There is also a constant call to turn to God, repent, and appeal for mercy. The only place in this book that offers any hope is Lamentations 3:23—and this is a big one! It says, “The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” God’s steadfast love is defined as His unchanging, firmly fixed, immovable, and not subject to change love. That love of God for us never runs out; His mercies never come to an end.
What are God’s mercies? Mercy is when God, out of His lovingkindness, withholds punishment that we rightfully deserve because of our sin. He reveals His mercy in how He provided manna for the Israelites’ desert journey. We see it in His protection and deliverance of His people time after time. Mercy is not a benefit based on our merit but is a gift from God. God’s Mercy takes action. Lamentations 3:23 reminds us that God’s mercies are new (fresh as opposed to stale) every morning!
Every sunrise presents itself to us with fresh opportunities for an outpouring of God’s love, compassion, faithfulness, and steadfast loyalty. Even when we wake up to storm clouds roiling on the horizon—like today—the sun still rises, hidden behind them. We might miss the radiance of the sunrise, but we know it’s there. God’s mercy is always present and available to us. Turn your eyes upon Jesus.
Be Encouraged,
Mathews
