by Pastor Rich Carlson

Today we begin a new series on the Gospels. Like all great literature, the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John begin with an introduction, a prologue, and some back story (in this case, two genealogical lists tracing the earthly origins of Jesus). To me, John’s gospel is the most complete and interesting.

Two things stand out in the first chapter of the book:

1. “Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God” (verse 12).

2. “From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another” (verse 16).

The word “all” holds a wonderful message: None of us are left out—God is totally inclusive in His offer to bring us into His family. And, like all of God’s important messages, it is clear in His word. If we all receive and believe, we all become God’s children.

But this is not just information to read—it requires a reaction. To “become,” we need to make a decision to receive and believe. Making this decision leads us to become more like God’s Son.

The Father wants all of us in His family, and He wants to shower all of us with blessings. The more we receive, believe, and become like Him, the more we realize we are blessed—not because we’ve earned it or deserve it, but because of His grace. It’s like this gospel’s conclusion is revealed in the beginning!

What a great way to begin our study of the Gospels—by deciding that we want to receive the gift of God’s love and goodness, believing on Jesus Christ so that we can know we have eternal life, and becoming the beautiful children of God we were meant to be.

Rich Carlson is campus chaplain at Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska. “God Is Faithful” is adapted from the email devotionals he writes regularly for the Union College family. Rich enjoys filling his life with God, his family, and especially his five grandchildren.