I heard from a few Christians that they never like reading the Old Testament because of the violence. Even God is sometimes portrayed as rigid and war-like. However, for me, the Old Testament passages made an impact on me before those of the New Testament.

“I don’t want your sacrifices—I want your love; I don’t want your offerings—I want you to know me.”

Whenever the parable of the prodigal son is mentioned, I will also be reminded of Hosea 6:6. Wow!!! Is the Creator of the universe begging for our love? He could have easily created new beings who would be more obedient and loving. But He didn’t. Instead, He invites us to love and know Him. How can we say no to that invitation?

Yes, the God of the Old Testament is the same God of the New Testament whom our Lord Jesus lovingly calls, “Abba”. He is the same God who sent His only begotten Son to be sacrificed so that we may spend eternity with Him (John 3:16).

Prayer: “Dear, heavenly Father, may we seek to love and know You first and above all else. May we always heed your invitation to fellowship with You.”