1 See what kind of love the Father has given to us in that we should be called God’s children, and that is what we are! Because the world didn’t recognize him, it doesn’t recognize us.
2 Dear friends, now we are God’s children, and it hasn’t yet appeared what we will be. We know that when he appears we will be like him because we’ll see him as he is. 3 And all who have this hope in him purify themselves even as he is pure.
Reflection
Sometimes we lament the fact that the church doesn’t get a lot of credit for the good it does in the world. Sometimes we get upset that the kindnesses we show others go unreturned and unrecognized.
Here’s what 1 John says about that: “What did you expect?” The world didn’t recognize Jesus either – so why should we be any different?
If we are serving God out of a desire to be recognized and celebrated, out of a need to be seen as important, good, or holy – or really out of a need to be seen as anything at all, we’re doing it wrong.
Those who hope in Jesus purify ourselves, just as he is pure. This means purifying not only our actions, but also our motivations. We are not seeking anyone’s approval.
See what love God has given you, that you are God’s beloved child – and let that be enough!
For Pondering & Prayer
How could remembering that you are God’s beloved child change your approach to today?
When are you most likely to feel undervalued and unappreciated? How can you remind yourself in those situations that you don’t need anyone’s approval?
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