“Return to Me,” says the LORD- Malachi 3:6-16- December 15, 2019

Every hard word of rebuke that the LORD speaks to his people comes with a loving call to return to him. The evidence that the people have gone away from the LORD is laid out before them. They are cynical, claiming that there is no benefit in serving the LORD and keeping his commands. They are selfish, withholding their tithes and offerings. The LORD rebukes them for their short-sighted and selfish understanding of his covenant with them. He calls them to return in their hearts to love him by honoring him with their money. He promises to receive them and to care for them.