His “lovingkindness”

I just started reading Michael Card’s newest book, “John, the Gospel of Wisdom”. It’s his second book on John, the first being “Parable of Joy“, and fifth on the different gospels. Card has a unique way of looking at the gospels, taking you back to walk with the writer to help understand their perspective.

In the first chapter he writes about the Word, Jesus, being full of grace and truth. He doesn’t stop there, though. He ties the Word “grace” to the Old Testament word “hesed” which is translated many different ways, as lovingkindness, faithful mercies, steadfast love and more. Card explains the word as “When the one from whom I have a right to expect nothing gives me everything.” Imagine reading in the Psalms and substituting grace for steadfast love.

Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory,
for the sake of your steadfast love and your faithfulness! (Psalm 115:1, ESV)

Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
for his steadfast love endures forever!
2 Let Israel say,
“His steadfast love endures forever.”
3 Let the house of Aaron say,
“His steadfast love endures forever.”
4 Let those who fear the Lord say,
“His steadfast love endures forever.” (Psalm 118:1-4, ESV)

Now, focus on Jesus, full of grace and truth. It gives new meaning to the Psalms, doesn’t it?

If you’d like to read this book, you can get it directly from Card’s site, or from major booksellers Barnes & Noble or Amazon. And no, I get absolutely nothing from referring you to any site. I just think it’s a good thing for you to read. Buy the CD, too.

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