“But from there you will seek the LORD your God and you will find him if you search after him with all your heart and with all your sol.” (Deuteronomy 4:29)

We shy away from the ominous Old Testament books of the Law, preferring the gentler tone of the Epistles and the story-­‐like quality of the Gospels. We ignore the ancient pages, believing them to be riddled with the wrathful vengeance of an angry God. Unfortunately, in so doing we grievously dismiss the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and forego the opportunity to acquaint ourselves with the flawless character of our Heavenly Father.

Some of the most endearing phrases leap out of books like Deuteronomy where the God of the Universe visibly displays relentless love for the Children of Israel. “He encircled him, he cared for him, he kept him as the apple of his eye. Like an eagle that stirs up its nest, that flutters over its young, spreading out its wings, catching them, bearing them on its pinions, the LORD alone guided him….” (Deuteronomy 32:10-­‐12). Beyond the powerful poetic imagery, this passage offers an intimate view of Almighty God.

By the mouth of Moses, the Lord God warned his children not to stray, not to succumb to idolatry, not to wander into disobedience. Like a compassionate father, God relayed the tragic consequences of turning away from his commandments. Yet, in the very same breath he reminded them he would be willing to extend them forgiveness. “For the LORD your God is a merciful God. He will not leave you or destroy you or forget the covenant with your fathers that he swore to them” (Deuteronomy 4:31).

Contemplate the richness of these Scriptures, picture the tenderness of the Father, reflect on his immeasurable capacity to forgive, and recognize afresh the limitless love of the God we serve. It’s amazing that we get to belong to him, too.

The passion, forgiveness, and grace he extended to the wandering Israelites, he demonstrates to us as well. His Word is saturated with promises fulfilled, covenants kept, and relationships rescued through his initiative. That’s reason enough to make our way through the unfamiliar pages of the love letters he left for us to live by.