Theme of the Day: A Gift for the World
When Jesus said, “No one can enter the kingdom of God,” he declared that the need for salvation is universal. He rightly condemned humanity as a whole. There is no one on the face of the earth who can make the case that they deserve God’s blessing. Yet, ages ago, God declared that all nations would be blessed. God has declared his love for the world and promised he would save the world. God’s gift of salvation is meant for all people. Some interpret this to mean that all people will be saved in the end. This is not true. The gift of salvation is meant for the world; however, it is received by faith. “Whoever believes in him…” the Gospel says. However, the good news is that faith is also God’s gift, imparted through that gospel.
John 3:1-17
Genesis 12:1-8
Romans 4:1-5,13-17
Psalm 121
613 – The God of Abraham Praise
570 – God Loved the World So That He Gave
557 – Dear Christians, One and All, Rejoice
638 – The Gospel Shows the Father’s Grace
Prayer of the Day: Almighty God, you see that we have no power to defend ourselves. Guard and keep us both outwardly and inwardly from all adversities that may happen to the body and all evil thoughts that may assault and hurt the soul; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.