Our scripture this morning is 1 John 3:1-2.
See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are. The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God’s children now; what we will be has not yet been revealed. What we do know is this: when he is revealed, we will be like him, for we will see him as he is.
In Genesis 1:27 we read we are made in God’s image, so we are like Jesus as well. Because of this we are called to be more like Him in the lives we lead here, sharing the gift we have been given. This is how we show our love for Him and each other.
Since the world did not recognize Jesus, it will likely not recognize His followers. He told us it would be difficult but that doesn’t change the task He gives us. He reminds us “If the world hates you, be aware that it hated me first” (John 15:18).
The apostle Paul tells us “For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as children by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!” (Romans 8:15). What He gives us is not just the name “Children of God” but the blessing and the promise that go with it.
Heavenly Father, we are amazed that You call us Your children. Forgive us for our disobedience and strengthen us in faith, that we may go to the world in Your name. Amen.
