God's Love Letter to Me: A Reflection from Adoration

I recently began my fourth journey with the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises, a nine-month “retreat in daily life” that I credit with my first real encounter with Jesus—and everything that has happened since. In the past, I’ve used Fr. Kevin O’Brien’s excellent The Ignatian Adventure, which I cannot recommend highly enough. This time, I’m walking with Journey with Jesus by Larry Warner, and it is exceeding every expectation.

This is a deeply intimate reflection—one I debated sharing. There are many aspects of my spiritual life I guard, and for good reason. But the Lord made it clear: this message, though personal, is not meant to be private.

“…He first loved us…”

What does this mean, Lord?
How do I know this—not just as a concept or theological truth, but as reality?
As a sword piercing my soul?

"Be vulnerable," He says.
I realize I don’t know how. Not really.
I ask Him, “How?”

And He takes me back to the beginning.

To Genesis.

*“I made all of this for you.
I made the sun to light your day and warm your shoulders—
to create the fall afternoons you love, and the rainbows you always show your children.

I gave you the moon to light your nights in prayer.
I made the waters because I know the peace you feel beside them.

I made the animals—all of them—
and I wondered which would become your favorite.
I hoped you would not fear them.

I made the green things and the clouds and the mountains so you would know Me,
and know my love.

I planted your favorite trees and sent the breeze that shakes them—
the one that whispers to your heart, ‘He is near…’”*

But there was more.

*“Then I waited.
I waited so long for you to arrive—so that I could share it with you.

And when you came, I said: ‘He is finally here.’
And there was great joy.

I gave you your parents—all of them.
I sent people who carried my Love in their hearts,
even when you could not yet see my Face.

I gave you your wife, your children, and so many gifts—
gifts I longed to give you.

And I am still giving.
There is still so much more.”*

I cannot bear the love and terror in my heart.
I recall the psalms of David, speaking of the earth trembling at God’s nearness and power—
and I understand that trembling.
It is inside me.

Have you ever experienced God’s love as something personal—not just true, but meant for you? If this reflection moved you, consider sharing it—or leave a comment with your own story of encounter.