NOTHING

I saw quite plainly that our Lord was never angry, nor ever shall be; for he is God, and a God who is good, life, truth, love and peace. His clarity and unity do not allow him wrath, for I saw truly that it is against the nature of his strength to be angry, and against the nature of his wisdom and goodness. ~Julian of Norwich, Revelations of Divine Love

I remember when I was a kid and being so afraid of being on Santa’s naughty list. The last thing that I wanted on Christmas morning was to open my stocking and see nothing but a pile of coal at the bottom of it. It wasn’t a fear that kept me up at night but particularly during Advent I made a point to be especially kind to my sisters, to try to pick up my room a little bit more and to use the good words rather than the insulting ones. I would pour over the Toys ‘R Us or Sears catalogs for what I dreamed of Christmas morning with big magic marker circles and my initials next to select items. Many people over the years have made comparisons theologically from Santa to God, always watching and wanting us to be good.

While there is some overlap, such as God is always keeping an eye on us, that is about where the comparisons about stop. God is always rooting for us and is never angry with us. God always wants the best for each of us and wants us to be good people. Rather than responding to our sins with punishment or wrath, God responds with more and more love. Instead of pulling back from humanity, God leaned in as much as possible with the gift of God’s son. God is all wise and all knowing and is able to see into our hearts guiding us at every turn in the road. As Paul writes to the Romans in chapter 8, nothing can separate us from the love of God—nothing.

Prayer

God of love, you watch every choice we make and each move in our lives. At each turn, no matter how many times we might turn from you, you never turn away. Through your endless love and without anger, you always hope for the best for each of us. In our lives, help us to live in gratitude for your constant love and gentleness. Amen.