FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9

READ: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end…” Lamentations 3:22

REFLECT: When these words were written, life looked dark. Israel was mourning the loss of their city and temple – the place they met with God. But God reassures them that though they’ve lost so much, they haven’t lost him.

It’s so comforting to see God’s grace toward us again and again throughout the Bible. Today we’re reminded that God isn’t just present with us, off to the side and uninterested in our daily lives. He is steadfastly loving us; he is blessing us daily with unending mercies. God doesn’t just want to be present with you, he wants to lavish you with his love and mercy.

This is what we really need. We may want God’s presence and money, God’s presence and the perfect gift, or God’s presence and the perfect relationship, but what we need is God’s presence and his love and mercy.

Thank God for his unending mercies and steadfast love for you today – and everyday!

What will you do today to live in joy? Ask God to keep pointing you towards joy as you go through the Christmas season.