Are you familiar with the book of Hosea? It's one of those little books tucked away in the Old Testament. The book may be little, but the message of Hosea is anything but small. I find so much comfort reading the account of Hosea. If you're unfamiliar with the message, I encourage you to read it. For today though, we'll enjoy the "cliff notes" version for reflection. Hosea is a man after God's own heart. God told Hosea to find a wife, sounds good, right? Not so fast. He also showed Hosea that his wife would be unfaithful to him, like really unfaithful. Being the man of God that Hosea was, he obeyed God and married Gomer despite knowing she would break his heart. Fast forward through the most real relationship account you can imagine. Tragic, turbulent, true. After arduous heartache and incredible commitment, we see the chronicle of Gomer and Hosea end in Hosea's relentless pursuit of his wife's heart, her redemption, and full and complete reconciliation.

The book of Hosea is a love story. Not just that of two people, but also the love story of Christ and His bride, the church. The book of Hosea helps us understand the very real, sometimes tragic, often messy, yet truly hopeful relationship we as believers enjoy with the Lord. Like Hosea, the Lord not only accepts us but desires us despite our shortcomings and straying hearts. Also, like Hosea, though God's love is not dependent upon it, we are called to quick and faithful obedience to what He calls us to do. God promises us constant and consistent love. His love never ceases. His faithfulness endures. There is simply no transgression or tangled up mess we can fall into that His love won't cover. We are His beloved bride and He will go to the ends of the earth to capture and redeem us to Him. May that assure your heart and give you peace today!

Prayer: Loving God, thank you that you search us and know us, and yet, you love us still! Your love amazes me! Will you give me unwavering courage to obey you in every situation, even when, especially when it doesn't make sense in my limited understanding? Your plans exceed my wildest hopes and dreams. Help me to remember that when I doubt. Thank you for your relentless pursuit of my sometimes wondering heart. I give you all praise! In Jesus name, amen.