Today, I realized when reviewing my notes that I had skipped Hosea! We just jumped right over it when we started the minor prophets. I thought it would be good today not to necessarily look at all of Hosea but look at my favorite chapter in this book, Chapter 11. In this chapter, we see how frustrated the Lord is with the sins of the people and how He is ready to give them over and give them up. But, right in that moment, His compassion is awakened, and He remembers His great love. Oh, how deep is the Father’s love for us? You are loved today. And so are “they.” And so is the entire world. That goodness and love change the world today.

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Good morning! It’s great to be here with you on this Wednesday morning. I appreciate all the feedback and support for these Rooted reflections. It means a lot to hear that they speak to you. If you prefer reading, you can find transcripts of these reflections on my blog linked on Facebook and YouTube.

Today, we’re revisiting the Minor Prophets after spending some time in the Gospels. Specifically, we’re diving into Hosea, a prophet with a unique life story. Hosea’s marriage to a prostitute named Gomer serves as an allegory for Israel’s unfaithfulness to God. It’s a poignant and challenging book that reflects God’s relentless love despite humanity’s waywardness.

Skipping over the earlier chapters, I want to focus on my favorite chapter in Hosea, chapter 11. This chapter beautifully captures God’s love for his people and his heartache over their continual disobedience. God recounts his history of kindness towards Israel, likening his care to that of a loving parent for a child.

Yet, despite God’s constant calling and nurturing, the people persist in turning away from him. It’s a heartbreaking cycle of rejection and return. God’s frustration is palpable as he laments their waywardness and the consequences they face.

But amidst this frustration, there’s a profound shift in tone in verses 8 and 9. God’s love triumphs over his anger, and he declares his unwavering commitment to his people. It’s a powerful reminder of the depth of God’s love and his desire for reconciliation with humanity.

I remember encountering this passage during a challenging time in my life, feeling overwhelmed by my own mistakes and doubts. Yet, Hosea 11:8-9 spoke to me deeply, reminding me of God’s unconditional love and compassion. It was a revelation that God’s love surpasses my failings and shortcomings.

I was reminded of this truth recently when I heard a sermon about the love we have for our pets and how much more God loves us. God’s love knows no bounds, and he pursues us relentlessly, like a shepherd seeking out a lost sheep.

As we reflect on the depth of God’s love, may we carry that transformative love into the world around us. In a world that often feels broken and divided, may we be agents of healing and reconciliation, sharing the boundless love of God with everyone we encounter.

Thank you for joining me today. Let’s live into the truth of God’s unfailing love and share it with those around us. Have a wonderful day!