The concept of pursuit can be taken two different ways. On one hand, it may elicit thoughts of a criminal chase, unwanted following, or feverish hunt. On the other, it could describe a gentle, loving persistence that seeks good and builds trust.
Qualities may be similar, but outcome is drastically different. Hectic, forceful pursuit is uninvited and anxiety-ridden; intentional, respectful pursuit is refreshing and edifying. Relentlessness can be harsh, but it can also be soft. Indeed, the greatest pursuit of all is one of love.
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16
Love pursues. And God is love.
“I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued My faithfulness to you.” – Jeremiah 31:3
This isn’t merely a one-size-fits-all approach to salvation. God personally communicates His love with each of His children. He bends down, comes in, draws near.
In my own life I have seen this pursuit unfolding. God’s love seems to chase me down, find me out, and bring me back again and again. Sometimes it feels like a delicate knock on the door of my heart, other times like a piercing arrow through the channels of my soul. But it’s always the Lord, reminding me of His truth and coming (yet again) to the rescue.
David writes one of my favorite lines in Psalm 23, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever” (6).
God is determined in the most beautiful way—to restore what has been lost, renew what has been broken, revive what has been lifeless. He never ceases to stir and move and work according to His wisdom and might to bring about a new thing for my good and His glory.
“But the steadfast love of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, and His righteousness to children’s children, to those who keep His covenant and remember to do His commandments.” – Psalm 103:17-18
God was the one who created mankind and established a relationship with him. He provided and promised through the ages, came to earth as a man, and is patiently waiting to return. God always makes the first move.
That leaves us to respond: Step toward Him, or away? Pursue Him in return, or reject His love? One day eternity will be sealed, but for now the invitation stands.
“I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live, loving the Lord your God, obeying His voice and holding fast to Him, for He is your life and length of days …” – Deuteronomy 20:19-20
“For thus says the Lord to the house of Israel: ‘Seek Me and live.’” – Amos 5:4
“Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
Abby
