I will betroth you to me forever; I will betroth you in righteousness and justice, in love and compassion. I will betroth you in faithfulness, and you will acknowledge the Lord. —Hosea 2:19-20.
God longed for Israel to be faithful to him. Despite their unfaithfulness in the past, God offered his people forgiveness and hope, again and again, so they could be restored to a relationship with him. Now God reaches out to his New Covenant people, Jesus’ church, and offers this promise because of Jesus’ Passion and resurrection. Since the Lord was willing to pay such an incredibly high price to betroth us (2 Corinthians 11:2-3) to himself, forever, in love, righteousness, and justice, we MUST respond with appreciation and obedience so we can celebrate the lavish wedding feast of Jesus and his bride (Revelation 19:9, 7-8). Let’s acknowledge the Lord and live faithfully anticipating this glorious day!