“…He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. This is love…He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” – 1 John 4:9-10 (NIV)
Our backgrounds, failures, or circumstances do not limit God’s love. It transcends barriers of race, nationality, social status, and personal history. In a world often divided by differences, God’s inclusive love invites us all into a relationship with Him.
1 John 4 reminds us that God’s love is proactive and sacrificial. He took the initiative to send His Son, Jesus, to bridge the gap between humanity and Himself. This act of love is not just for a select few but for everyone — “…that we might live through Him.” This is the heart of the Gospel: that all who believe in Christ are welcomed into His family, regardless of their past.
Romans 10:12-13 (NIV) says, “For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile — the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on Him, for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
In this verse, Apostle Paul emphasises that God’s love and salvation are available to everyone. There is no hierarchy in God’s kingdom; all are equal recipients of His grace. This truth should inspire us to extend the same inclusive love to others. We are called to break down the walls that divide us and to reach out to those who may feel marginalised or unloved.
Take a moment to reflect on the people in your life who may feel excluded or unloved. How can you reach out to them this week? Consider practical ways to show God’s inclusive love — whether through a kind word, an invitation, or simply by being present. Remember, you are a conduit of God’s love, and your actions can reflect His heart to the world around you.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your incredible love that knows no bounds. Thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, to demonstrate the depth of Your love for all humanity. Help me to embrace and reflect this inclusive love in my life.
Open my eyes to see those around me who may feel excluded or unworthy of love. Give me the courage to reach out, to listen, and to share Your love with them. May I be a vessel of Your grace, breaking down barriers and building bridges of understanding and acceptance.
Help me to remember that Your love is for everyone, and may I celebrate the diversity of Your creation. Teach me to love others as You have loved me, unconditionally and wholeheartedly. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Read: Zephaniah 3:17; Ephesians 2:4-5
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 78:9-16; Acts 17:1-21; I Kings 16:8-34; I Kings 17; I Kings 18:1-15