When Israel Was a Child, I Loved Him

This meditation is based on a passage for October 10, 2010 in the Daily Lectionary Year 2 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: Hosea 11:1-11

Reflection and Question: This touching poem where God speaks of Israel as God’s child is among the most compelling expressions of the love of God in all Scripture. The words here sound so like a mother or father whose tenderness is made very real by comments like “Yet it was I who taught Ephraim to walk,” and “I was to them like those who lift infants to their cheeks.” God is honest here about deep anger toward Israel but is also clear in promising, “I will not come in wrath,” and “I will return them to their homes.” When have you felt God’s unconditional love?

Prayer: God of all power and might, we know we fall short through our sin and we are afraid. But we trust that Your compassion is ever tender and warm towards us, as to Ephraim, and we come trembling to Your loving arms. Amen.