Our scripture this morning is John 1:10-13.
He came into the very world he created, but the world didn’t recognize him. He came to his own people, and even they rejected him. But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. They are reborn—not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God.
The Gospel of John opens by introducing us to Jesus, the creating Word of God, His son who came to save us. The Messiah was promised, but sadly when He appeared much of the sinful world didn’t know or accept its creator. However, many believed and to those “He gave the right to become children of God.”
Jesus explains later that “unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God” (John 3:3). This is a spiritual action, returning in repentance to God and receiving the forgiveness He offers us. As His children, we then have kingdom responsibilities.
In Deuteronomy 14:1 we read “You are the people of the LORD your God.” We are God’s children through faith, not by heritage or any action we perform. When we accept Christ’s sacrifice and the plan God has for us, our response is to share that joy with everyone.
Gracious God, in Your mercy You made a way for us to be saved from our sin through the gift of Your son. Bless us to be the children of faith, going in Your name to all the world. Amen.
