After All That He Has Done For Us…

Today’s reading from Exodus is so appropriate in this Year of Mercy.

Clearly, we should see glimpses of ourselves in the Israelites. It’s amazing how quickly they turned from God after all He’d done for them.

Sounds a lot like us.

It might not be a golden calf that we worship, but don’t be fooled; there are plenty of idols vying for our attention today: money, success, fame, perfection.

I love how the Lord calls the Israelites “stiff-necked people.” I’m sure he says the same about us!

What’s amazing is that despite the Israelites’ disobedience, God is merciful and does not punish them.

What a wonderful thing mercy is.

God’s mercy towards the Israelites is certainly a reflection of the same mercy He showers on us. It’s also analogous to the mercy and love those of us who are parents might show towards our children.

I remember having an epiphany of sorts not too long ago; discovering the correlation between the love I have for my son and God’s unconditional love for His people.

My son is currently in the throws of the terrible 3s (I assure you, it’s a “thing”). He can drive my wife and I to our wits’ end. But, at the end of the day, when he’s lying in his bed sleeping peacefully, all of those feelings of annoyance melt away. I just feel love – unconditional love.

Sure, I’m a sucker for my 3-year-old, and he knows it.

I imagine God the Father feels that same way about us – but even more intensely because, well, He’s God. He’s a sucker for us, if I can be so bold to say it.

And at the end of the day, that’s simply amazing. How lucky are we?

—Jordan Watwood is the Marketing Director at Fuzati, a Catholic marketing company.