John 3:17 says, “Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but so that the world may be saved through him.”
There is a lot in that little verse of the gospel for this Sunday. Even though I can look at the world and feel judgmental, that is not the purpose for Jesus’ coming. How do you feel about the promise of this verse?
Over centuries, Christians have often had ambiguous views of “the world.” What does it mean that God “loves” the world so much that God sends Jesus that “the world” may be saved? Notice that it is not just individuals, but the world (cosmos!).
How can Jesus be good news for coral reefs, black soils, insects and redwoods, if God’s purpose is about the world?
Friends, these verses in John’s gospel are like a mini-gospel of grace. May they dwell deep in your hearts and sustain you for the challenges you meet this week.
Three Holy Days
In our tradition, we make space on Maundy Thursday to remember central parts of our faith story. We hear about the...
