Lord, thank you for the love You first showed me. I wondered as a kid how I could love someone I couldn’t see, but you made yourself real to me–so real I can tangibly feel You near. The paraphrase of an old hymn seems appropriate. My Jesus, I love You. I know You are mine. For You, all the follies of sin I resign. My gracious Redeemer, my Savior, if ever I loved You, my Jesus, it’s now. I rejoice in your precious name and authority, according to the good and perfect will of the Father. Amen.
 
“Love the Lord, all you his saints! The Lord preserves the faithful but abundantly repays the one who acts in pride. Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!” (Psalm 31: 23-24 ESV)