John 3:16 is one of the best-known verses of the bible. It seems to me the next verse is just as important in identifying God’s intention in sending Jesus. Jesus was sent as an expression of God’s love for the world, as God’s desire to reconcile the world to God’s self. And contrary to those who would portray God as vengeful, full of judgement, and ready to condemn, these verses tell us that God loves us, wants us to have everlasting life, and wants to save us from the full and final consequence of our sin. What amazing grace!
When you think of being ‘born from above’, what comes to mind? What would that look like in your daily conversations and activities? What practices might be helpful in shifting your focus from earthly things to heavenly things?
Today, offer a prayer of thanksgiving for God’s great love shown through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.