The World...

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life."

John 3:16 (NASB)

This is the Good News. There is hope for the broken and salvation for the lost. We can all agree this life-giving declaration is a light in the darkness for a world mired in sin and despair.

Unfortunately, too many in the church today have subscribed to a "post-John 3:16" Christianity. As those saved by Christ and walking in God's kingdom, John 3:16 no longer applies to us. We've moved past it. The truth, however, is that while we may not be "of this world", we are still part of the mass of mankind referred to in this verse as "the world". Saved or not, kingdom dwelling or not, we are still part of the world that God so loved. We are still in need of his light, his love, his guidance, his blessing and his mercy. And his willingness to provide all of that through the sacrifice of his son is not dependent on our value or worth, goodness or badness. It's based on his love for us.

I have a REALLY old Winnie the Pooh. Not the really nice, plush, trademark registered Pooh of today. This is a bear from the early 70s that's only recognizable as a Pooh because he's yellow. And he's not even really yellow anymore. He's a grayish shade of off yellow. He's cock-eyed,half of his felt smile is gone and he no longer has his little red Winnie the Pooh shirt.

For a long time, he lay dormant in a box of junk in various garages and closets. Then, eight years ago, he returned to the light of day. When my boys came home from the hospital the first time, he was there to spend the first night with them in their bassinet. Since then, he's been drooled on and spit up on. He's had his arms and legs pulled and his nose and ears chewed on. All things considered, he's pretty decrepit.

And I wouldn't trade him for anything. God willing, he'll be there to welcome one or more of my grandchildren home from the hospital.

You see, his value is not determined by his condition, his usefulness or his appearance. Because he belongs to me, I determine his worth.

As does God with us.

Regardless of our talents, treasures or accomplishments. Whether favored child or lost sheep. We have all been assigned value by the one to whom we belong. If we were wearing price tags, they would all read "John 3:16".

Pastor Jason