Please take your Bible and turn to Malachi 1:1 as we read “The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi.” God has decided once again to speak through a human instrument concerning the things that are on HIS heart. Evidently this word is meant to become something of substantial importance to Israel because it is called a burden. Have you ever received a word from God that became in you something that was heavy and freeing at the very same time? Think back to circumstances in your life when you knew the “weight” of what HE expected from you balanced with what He promised through your obedience. The Bible is full of these Holy moments. So are our lives! Verse two of our text states once again the fullness of His covenant with humanity. “I have loved you saith the Lord.” The hinge-work for the entire plan and purpose of God is stated in these words. The value of His love is immeasurable! His Love is so weighty I cannot by my own strength lift it. It is so lofty; I can’t fully reach up to understand it. His love is so deep; I can’t on my own find it! Do you understand? Every word, commandment, statute or directive of God begins with His love for us! How amazing; how wonderful! Malachi is a prophet who is going to speak some very strong and condemning words to the people of Israel and thereby to our lives today. But please don’t forget that it is based first on the weight, “burden” of His love for us. By the way, our obedience is based on the value we place on His love, and our desire to love Him in return. All my love, Pastor Dwayne