Remembering God’s Love

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.” Psalm 136:1

This summer my grandparents are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary. I was recently with them and we discussed what a gift from God it is to reach such a milestone. During our reflection, I asked “what is a favorite memory from your marriage or about one another?” I expected a fun story from their younger years, but the answer my Nana gave was much simpler and yet profound. She said she remembered the way my Papa has loved her through it all. In response, my Papa declared he couldn’t have said it any better and was just so grateful to God. Among all the fun, exciting, and happy memories, they picked the sustaining truth, their love for one another and gratitude to God.

As I read Psalm 136, I couldn’t help but remember that moment. Just as my grandparents’ love for one another is what they hold onto, we can hold tightly to God’s love for us. The author of Psalm 136 makes that very clear as 26 times he declares “God’s steadfast love endures forever”. Through each section the psalmist returns to that truth as the foundation and reason for gratitude.

The psalm details many reasons to give thanks to God, beginning with praise for who he is. We can give thanks to God because he is above all and the source of all goodness. He can do things beyond our imagination and he is worthy of our praise.

The psalmist continues, giving thanks for God’s work as creator. He reflects on all that our Lord did to create the world around us. Reminding us that God is worthy of our thanks because he created us.

In verse 13 the focus becomes more specific. The author remembers God’s faithfulness to his people in the past. He brought the Israelites out of Egypt and into the promised land just as he promised. He was faithful in their past and continues to be in the present.

The psalmist continues to remember the ways God has shown him love by extending grace and providing in all circumstances. The passage ends with a final declaration and invitation to “Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever.”

Each verse of Psalm 136 begins with remembrance and concludes in thankful praise. Praise for God’s never ending love. This passage reminds us that it is good to remember, to look at our past and see the evidence of God’s enduring mercy. It is also good to look to our present, and spot God’s continuing love. And when the challenges of present circumstances clutter our view, we can always remember who God is; our Lord, Creator, Savior and Redeemer, and find reason to give thanks.

Take a moment to reflect. Look back on your life and spot the ways God has been faithful. Where do you see God working in your present circumstances? What truth about God do you need to remember when giving thanks is difficult?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, We come before you today with praise and thanksgiving in our hearts. With the psalmist we are humbled when we remember your faithfulness from the beginning of time to now. As we go throughout our day may we take time to remember your goodness. May we pause to remember who you are and all you have done for us. As we do, may our hearts turn to you in gratitude and praise. We pray this all in your son’s name, Amen.

Blessings in your week,

Makalah Scholten
Spiritual Care Coordinator

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