God’s Love Is Constant

“Because of this many of his disciples turned back and no longer went about with him.”
-John 6:66

When we read these words, our first thought is probably; “these no-good followers, how could they possibly turn their back on Jesus?”  I know that has tended to be where I go initially on reading this lesson.  Then I have to ask myself, when have you turned your back on Jesus and God’s call into your life? And if I answer honestly, I can probably name and number times in that very day, that I have walked away from God’s way, and the voice of Jesus.  There are way too many times to count when I have decided that “Loving my neighbor as myself” is too hard.  Yet our God is a gracious God, and it doesn’t matter how often I turn my back, God calls me back with a voice of love and compassion.  How wonderful it is to know that our God is always ready to welcome us back, no matter when and how we turn our backs to Jesus.

-Naomi Tutu

Let us pray…

Loving God, we give thanks today for you compassion and forgiveness.  We know that there have been times, and there will be times, when we turn our backs to you.  Yet you are a God of mercy and grace, who welcomes back the prodigal child, and seeks out the wandering lost sheep.  Thank you for your love that always holds us in your arms and welcomes us home whenever we lose our way. Amen