Our scripture this morning is John 3:16-17.
For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
God’s love is not static, He reaches out to us in amazing ways. Through His everlasting love we are not condemned as we deserve, but saved by the gift of His only Son. Through our faith, we are called to reach out with His love to the world.
Notice the inclusive love of “the world”, not just our own groups. We are all called to repentance and forgiveness through Christ. We hear that “everyone who believes in Him may not perish but may have eternal life.” God’s loving arms are open to all who accept Christ’s message of salvation.
God’s love is not limited, rather it is a gift to everyone who believes. When we come to Him in faith we are washed clean and gifted to go in His name so that all may hear the Good News. As God sent Jesus, Jesus sends us!
Gracious God, we stand condemned by our failures. In Your mercy You gave Your son that we might be saved. Bless us to share Your love and forgiveness with all. Amen.
