That is why our merciful God takes the initiative. He sends his son Jesus, to proclaim a new covenant, an everlasting covenant of peace. He sends his son Jesus to be the one shepherd, to unify his people and lead them to abundant life. He sends his son Jesus to die on the cross, to be the sacrifice of atonement for the guilt of his children, so that forgiveness HAS been earned. And he sends his son Jesus, the resurrected heir of David's line, to be king over all.
We who are followers of Jesus have been sprinkled by the clean water of baptism, and have received the Holy Spirit of God. We are being sanctified through our discipleship, and our hearts are being changed from stone to flesh. And, in due time, we will be brought up from our graves to live with God forever.
Merciful Father, hallowed be your name among the nations! Bless us and multiply us, and keep us faithful to our King, your son Jesus, in his name we pray, amen.