1 John 3:1-3 How great is the love the Father has lavished on 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. 2 Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when He appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as he is. 3 Everyone who has this hope in him purifies himself, just as He is pure.
Earlier today as I was thinking my way through Sunday’s message, the Lord rocked my tiny, little world. As you know, for weeks now we have been preaching through I John. We are now in I John 3:1-3. In these verses John highlights the “love” of the Father. This “love” has been “bestowed” on us as His children. John, in a moment of astonishment, pauses to give us a glimpse of this most spectacular attribute of our Heavenly Father. This caught me by surprise. It’s as though John stops writing, and calls us to attention so that we can take it with him. This love of the Father has a motivating effect! As children of God we do not live righteously to earn God’s affection. We live righteously because we have experienced God’s most amazing love in the person of His Son, Jesus! It may take a moment or two for this to sink in, but when it does, you will see your life in totally different light! Literally, God’s love ignites His divine nature within us, producing a holy desire to live godly in Christ Jesus! Yes, we can all agree, the love of our Father is a powerful, motivating force.
This Sunday our deacons will serve the Lord’s Supper. Plan now to be in your place as a child of God and as a member of Grace Church. God’s Word never encourages unbelievers to participate in the Lord’s Supper. On the other hand, God’s Word specifically calls every believer to partake of the Lord’s Supper as often as our church serves it. As you bring your children, teach them what it means for believers to receive the bread and the juice. The Lord may use your teaching to draw them to Jesus. You may also invite other believers to join you at the Lord’s Table.
Thank you for your faithfulness! As I left church Wednesday evening my heart was full! I love the time I have with our men each week on Wednesdays. Teaching Scripture and hearing the responses of my brothers stirs my heart! Thank you for your prayers as we prepare for Sunday. Keep your eyes on Jesus and your knees down. Jesus may come today… be ready!
Jesus is Lord,
Mike and Cheryl <><