Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not his benefits—who forgives all your sins, and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion… (Psalm 103:4)

When I think of a royal crown, I tend to think of power, of glory, of majesty.

Not compassion

When I think of a victor’s crown, you know, the Greek version of a gold medal, I think of victory, of triumph, of defeating your enemies.

Not love

But that is because, in so many ways, I am still a spiritual baby—pass the milk, please.  I mean, what shows more power than mercy?  What is more majestic than grace?

Can it really be that one day he will imbue us with the love and compassion that so characterize him?  Can it really be that he will conform us to his image, make us like him?  Can it really be that we will be made holy and complete by his very hand and heart?

Yes, Beloved—it can really be.

Happy Monday