Lavish Love

See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! — 1 John 3:1a

And that is what we are! (v3:1b) It's generally accepted that John was Jesus's closest disciple. John likely knew Jesus better than anyone, which would mean that John had the best taste of eternal life. Maybe it's why he talks so much about eternal life. From that position, he makes this incredible statement in 1 John 3. I want the truth of it to sink in the same way it did for John.

Naming It

When [the devil] lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. — John 8:44c

Those curious about dark spiritual forces and demonic activity don't have to look far. We think of places like Haiti, parts of Africa, or remote islands off the Indian coast. We warn against astrology, palm readers, tarot cards, ouija boards, and crystals. But aren't lies, spin, gaslighting, and other forms of deception the most apparent evidence of evil at work? Evil's signature scheme?

A Pointing Finger

"They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.” ⏤ Mark 12:44

Not an accusatory finger. But a pointing finger. I remember when my grandfather would put his left hand on my shoulder while he pointed at something with his right, helping me to see what he saw. Maybe a bird, a squirrel, or a particular tree. The Mosaic Law, parables, the Sermon on the Mount, and Jesus's royal law are all ways God helps us to see what he sees. Then suddenly, "There! I see it!"