March 2

Hebrews 3:1-6; Psalms 45 & 48

What romantic images the Psalms give us!  One is addressed to a handsome king, victorious in battle, anointed and blessed by God because of his righteousness.  Another tells of the City of God, the joy of all the earth, beautiful and astounding.  Yet these are not just fairy tales - it really was so, once upon a time. 

All our romantic ideals have their roots in truth.  We truly are "holy partners in a heavenly calling," anointed by God, called "for the cause of truth and to defend the right."  Because of our righteousness - following the ways of the Lord, we are blessed.   

Sometimes blessings are easy to overlook, especially when they are immaterial.  You and I are blessed far beyond the simple luxuries of our everyday lives.  Just look around - God is everywhere.  His warm embrace is in the warmth of the sun; the birds and the streams are His musicians.  In the eyes of His children, you find His love.  I have the constant companionship of our Lord, and peace in knowing that I am cared for.  Our blessings are given to us - and we, with praise and thanksgiving, should rise up to our own personal calling, purify our hearts and minds, and carry ourselves with integrity and righteousness. 

The “city of God” in the psalm was a reference to Zion, but we can manifest the words of the Lord's prayer: thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as in heaven by submitting ourselves to the will of God.  Yes, the kingdom truly exists, not yet in its full glory and splendor, but in God's people who are faithful, who proclaim that these blessings are "God, our God forever and ever."  Our bodies are temples, "we are His house," if we have hope and hold firm.   

I have my own romantic ideal, and I try to live it daily: "I am a pure and noble woman, a daughter of the One Most High, blessed with wisdom, grace, and love."  Remembering this allows me to hold myself up with dignity whilst rising to the challenges before me.   

Let us "ponder God's steadfast love," remembering that God "will be our guide forever;" let us have hope in the truth behind our romantic ideals.  That truth is God.