Have you ever struggled to keep a promise? All
of us have to admit that we do. It’s a natural part of our being human, whether
purposeful disregard to keeping our word or simple inability to always be able
to do what we say we will do.
G-d does not have a problem keeping his
promises because well, He is G-d! He formalizes what He says He will do in what
is called a Brit (Covenant), which is a particular kind of formal
relationship made between persons, characterized by mutual obligations. Thus a
covenant relationship is not merely a mutual “acquaintanceship” but a deep
relational commitment involving responsibility and action. Its faithfulness
within relationship!
Just a few examples to consider:
G-d in his love
has covenanted Himself to mankind
despite our faithlessness, “I will remember My covenant that is between Me and
you and every living creature of all flesh. Never again will the waters become
a flood to destroy all flesh.” Genesis 9:15
G-d has
covenanted Himself to Israel
despite our faithlessness, “Thus says Adonai: “Only if heaven above
can be measured and the foundations of the earth searched out beneath, then
also I will cast off the offspring of Israel—for all they have done.” It is a
declaration of Adonai.” Jeremiah 31:37
G-d has
covenanted Himself to us who have
accepted Messiah Yeshua’s atonement
despite our faithlessness, “If we confess
our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive our sins and purify us from
all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9
As we begin the new Jewish year of 5779, let
us rejoice in our G-d who keeps His promises even when we can’t and won’t!
Forward
for Messiah!
Kirk
Gliebe
Rabbi & Director
