Scripture speaks a great deal about judgement, an inconvenient truth for those who claim that God is not about judging and that a loving God would not _____ - you can fill in the blank, there are many words and causes used. While God's love for us is the primary message of His word, there are many passages that talk about judgement brought by God historically, some refer to coming judgement and yet others speak to our responsibilities as Christians when to "judge" or not.

One sentence in Malachi whittles it all down to a wonderful, grace-filled truth from our Lord: "Return to me, and I will return to you." vs.3:7. He speaks these words in relation to our having turned away from His decrees.

This is a compassionate position from God who has every reason to be angry with us, yet refuses to deal with His anger like men (humans) usually do (Hosea 11:9). That isn't to say we will escape His judgement because we will not, but it will come at the time He has designated, another point that many choose to ignore. While we tend to act/react out of anger on an emotional impulse, He keeps His anger in perspective and gives us every opportunity to come (back) to Him before that final judgement. That couldn't be more compassionate or fair.

I have struggled a great deal with anger over the last couple of years since BJ got sick and then went to be with Jesus. I know that there are many facets to it and no doubt, multiple catalysts and roots beyond the significant changes that this has generated in our lives. It usually manifests itself inwardly, when I am alone (for which I am thankful) and do something stupid or when little things go wrong. My reactions though have been spreading to other situations, less solitary and more embarassing (for me and to the Lord) because they are sometimes overheard or come out at others as over-reactions. I apologize to those who have been on the receiving end of one of these failures to hold myself in check.

I am so thankful that God is loving and full of grace, that He still awaits the prodigals and procrastinators with love and patience while we race around in place fussing about what time it is lest we stop and be forced to consider that it is running out.

In reality at least part of my anger is blamed on these circumstances, the changes that they manifested in my life - when in fact focusing the blame in this way is simply a way to avoid dwelling on the fact that I have failed to act on convictions that resulted from these events. I have held back from "going through the mud" to serve my Savior who "went through the blood."

Lord, thank you for being willing to return to us if we will only return to you. Amen.

Brad