"Hesed"

Recently I was made aware of a Hebrew word as part of my preparation to teach the Old Testament this year.  The word is "Hesed."  Hebrew terms, the teacher explained were more general than English terms usually - I found this one deeply personal nonetheless.  Hesed is translated in the Old Testament as mercy, loving kindness, or goodness in the King James Version.  In Hebrew it denotes, "an attitude of man or God which arises out of a mutual relationship."  It is shown in "the little things a person does in a covenant relationship to express love." 
As I thought about "hesed," my mind was drawn back to Elder Bednar's address regarding the "tender mercies of the Lord" noted by both Nephi and himself -- that God would have his favorite hymn sung in General Conference before his first address.  That sure beats unexpected flowers for my wife - it is certainly more personal - and more covenant focused.  Then I thought how many many more opportunities a person has to show love in little ways in a covenant relationship - I can show my wife and my God my love and loyalty today by pushing out any impure thought that may enter my mind.  I can show my love to my family by studying the scriptures with the intent to be led in my daily decisions in the home.  I can show love by praying silently for the welfare and happiness of my wife and children, these and countless others can fill my days.
What is infinitely more impressive though is the was my Father in Heaven shows his love to me.  What a wonderful thing it is to be alive another moment to experience his beautiful and powerful love.  What a beautiful concept is encompassed in the Hebrew word "Hesed!"