John 3-9.13.22

Scripture

John 3:17

For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.

Observation

Romans 6:23 says “For the wages of sin is death..” Although we deserve condemnation, Jesus did not come to earth to condemn us and it was not how he responded in his interactions with people.

Understanding

I read a “Dear Abby” type of article today where someone wrote in asking if they should allow their daughter to play with a neighbor girl because the parents are evangelicals. The writer explained that when they first moved to the neighborhood, these neighbors were very friendly to them and so they pictured having a relationship between the families. That was until the writer and her husband refused their invitation to come to church. Since then, the neighbors have been polite, but distant.

I have to admit that at first the article shocked me. But, if I try to look from the perspective of someone who doesn’t know God, I realize that the writer feels targeted and used. They don’t feel loved and accepted. They feel that any friendliness shown to them by a Christian has an ulterior motive.

Jesus didn’t condemn people – he met them where they were. He ministered to them and healed them and showed them love. We need to learn to love people, regardless of their opinions and life choices. We need to love them regardless of whether or not they decide to follow Jesus. We need to love them because they are our neighbor.

Matthew 22:36-39 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’

Life Application

Jesus, help me to love people like you do. Help me to accept people where they are. It is not my job to change people, it is my job to follow You and lead a life that points others to You.

-Debbie Dunn