Friday, March 25, 2022

Saturday prior to Lent 4

 

John 3:1-18; Ephesians 2:1-10-Sunday’s suggested hymn of the day is LSB 571 God loved the world so that He gave. The hymn tells the story of salvation from beginning to end. It teaches the faith and is a hymn that can easily be put to memory. We are now in the middle of our journey through Lent. The cross becomes ever clearer. As you meditate on this hymn, rejoice in your salvation.

In the New Testament, Jesus’ life is unfolded and was revealed to all who listened. The promise of love and salvation came to fulfillment in Jesus who was sent by the God so we may not perish and in order that we may live in God’s presence.

It was because of love, the love of the Father to us that he gave his only Son for our ransom, so we may live, so we may be restored to life.

How are we in our following of Jesus? Are we enjoying life and salvation in Him? Have we changed our old ways to the ways of God? Do we follow His will heartily just like Jesus who obeyed his Father until his last moment here on earth? Do we bring love and salvation in our families, in our circle of friends, and in our communities?

The Lord has not condemned the world even if people have disobeyed and displeased Him very much. He has come to save us and do we believe in this? During the time of Jesus, a few good men and women believed in him and followed him. Though not always faithful and obedient, God’s mercy is enough. It is not of human standards but of God’s. Jesus is God’s best gesture of his love for us for only thru Jesus that we are reconnected to God every time we falter and fail. Do we really believe the great love of God to us? Faith is a gift for those who receive it.

When a person has love, one has salvation. When a person has love, one experiences God. When a person has love, one is not condemned but saved. When a person has love, one grows in grace and lives in peace. The fact is, God the Father sent his Son, and the Son obeyed so must we obey to God. When we are sent to love, do we love without conditions and boundaries? When we are sent to share love, do we share it willingly and joyfully with others?[1]

 Collects for Lent 4: Almighty God, our heavenly Father, Your mercies are new every morning; and though we deserve only punishment, You receive us as Your children, and provide for all our needs of body and soul. Grant that we may heartily acknowledge Your merciful goodness, give thanks for all Your benefits, and serve You in willing obedience; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and  reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever[2] -26 March, 2022



[2] Collect for Lent 4, Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis


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