The Daily Devotional for Sunday, November 5, 2023: Behold What Manner of Love

 

The Daily Devotional
Sunday, November 5, 2023

Behold What Manner of Love

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

After Sherman Smith recruited Deland McCullough under his wing to play football at Miami University, their bond deepened, and Sherman became a paternal figure in Deland's life. Deland held Sherman in high esteem, aspiring to emulate him. In an astonishing twist of fate, years later, upon locating his biological mother, Deland was floored by her revelation: “Your father’s name is Sherman Smith.” Not a different man, but the very same Sherman who had mentored him. Upon discovering that Deland was his son, Coach Smith was as astounded as Deland was to learn that his mentor was also his biological father.

Their reunion was heartfelt, as Sherman embraced Deland, calling him “My son”—words Deland had yearned to hear from a father. He felt the weight of Sherman's pride and acknowledgment, and it moved him deeply.

Reflection:

In the simple yet profound passage from the first epistle of John, we are called to behold—a call to witness, to pause, to consider—the kind of love the Father has given us. This is not ordinary affection; this is 'great love,' a kind that is poured out, lavished without measure, making the finite infinite and the mortal immortal in its generosity and reach. It is the type of love that changes status and identity, from strangers to family, from aliens to heirs.

Such overwhelming emotions echo the profound love our divine Father extends to us. As John expressed in his writings, "See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!" (1 John 3:1a). Our astonishment parallels Deland's, incredulous that someone like Sherman could be his father, just as we are awestruck by the reality of God’s love for us. John affirms this truth: we are indeed God’s children.

What does it mean to be called the children of God? It means that once where there was estrangement, now there is intimacy. Where there was fear, now there is assurance. Where there was loneliness, now there is belonging. To be called a child of God is to be enveloped in the security of an eternal relationship, sealed by divine love and manifested through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The apostle John marvels at this truth, inviting us to marvel with him. To be a child of God is not to hold a title but to embrace a transformed existence. We are part of a divine family, sharing in the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4), and recipients of the divine inheritance (Romans 8:17). This identity is not dependent on the recognition of the world; in fact, our identity may be a reason for the world's estrangement, as it was with our Lord Jesus.

In a world where love is often conditional and identities are frequently in crisis, this assurance of divine filiation stands as a beacon of unchanging truth. It is a truth that does not ebb with societal tides nor wane with the passing of seasons. It is an eternal reality, founded on the steadfast character of God.

For those who have faith in Jesus, this connection is familial; God becomes our Father. Even if you feel forsaken or isolated, the reality remains that you are never alone. You belong to the Father, the epitome of perfection, who delights in recognizing you as His own child.

Personal Application:

Take a moment to consider the depth of God's love for you. How does this understanding shape the way you see yourself and your worth? Let this identity permeate every aspect of your life—your decisions, relationships, and dreams. Live knowing you are a treasured child of the Most High, and let this truth guide you in righteousness, peace, and joy.

When the world questions your worth, remember who you are in Christ. When you face rejection or misunderstanding, remember that Jesus too was misunderstood and rejected by a world that did not know him. Find comfort in knowing that your acceptance does not rest in the hands of the world but in the heart of the Father.

Prayer:

Father God, thank You for Your astonishing love that calls us Your children. Help us to live every day in the light of this truth, experiencing Your love in all its fullness and sharing this love with others. Strengthen us to face the world with the confidence of our identity in You. We pray that our lives would be a testament to Your grace and a reflection of Your love. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

Beloved, as you walk through this day, carry this truth close to your heart: you are a cherished child of the Most High God. Let this identity shape your every thought, your every interaction. You are loved beyond measure, and this love has the power to transform your life and the lives of those you touch.