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“See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God; and such we are.” 1 John 3:1 (NASB)
Have you ever had something you loved or enjoyed so much that you couldn’t help but tell others? Maybe it was a once-in-a-lifetime vacation, that cute grandchild, a really fabulous book or movie, a non-profit you just learned about that’s doing amazing things, or just a recipe for that “to die for” dessert. Whatever it is, sometimes you just want to tell people.
Years ago, I remember going to a restaurant that we really enjoyed. The food and service were exceptional, and I found myself telling lots of people about our experience and encouraging them to check it out. I honestly can't remember what restaurant it was anymore, but I remember at one point noting how much I had talked about it. I also remember asking myself if I was ever that excited when I talked about God, my faith, and what Christ has done for me.
The truth is, yeah, I can be that excited, but I can also get pretty comfortable and lose sight of “how great a love the Father has bestowed on me." Ephesians 1:7-8 tells us, “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us." This is no small thing! It’s not just His grace, but the riches of His grace. And God lavishes them on us!
In 1 Peter 3:15, we are encouraged to “be ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you." Just as I was excited to tell people about that restaurant, I want to be ready to tell the wonders God has done and is doing — yet, as we’re encouraged, with gentleness and reverence.
Have you thought about what you would say to someone? What about God and the faith He has worked in you means the most? Sure, there are seasons when that joy is dimmed, but when you really stop to think about it, when you are reminded in His word, our joy is rekindled and we truly have something exciting to share. Unlike that restaurant I can’t even remember or that “to die for" recipe that has gotten buried in a pile, the gift we have from God is “an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:4). It’s something to talk about!
Come, Thou Fount of ev'ry blessing,
Tune my heart to sing Thy grace;
Streams of mercy, never ceasing,
Call for songs of loudest praise.
While the hope of endless glory
Fills my heart with joy and love,
Teach me ever to adore Thee;
May I still Thy goodness prove.
LSB Hymn 686
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