“19 And this is the judgment: the Light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil.

20 For everyone who does wicked things hates the Light and does not come to the Light, lest his works should be exposed.

21 But whoever practices the truth comes into the Light, so that it may be seen clearly that what he has done has been accomplished in God.””

— John 3:19-21

“31 He who comes from above is above all. He who is of the earth belongs to the earth and speaks in an earthly way. He who comes from heaven is above all.

32 He testifies to what He has seen and heard, yet no one accepts His testimony.

33 Whoever accepts His testimony has certified that God is truthful.

34 For the One whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit.

35 The Father loves the Son and has placed all things in His hands.

36 Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life. Whoever rejects the Son will not see life. Instead, the wrath of God remains on him.”

— John 3:31-36

Thoughts on Today’s Reading

Grace and mercy from God to you!

The greatness of Jesus is profound. Jesus was and is above all. Jesus is from heaven, from God the Father. Jesus’ insight expresses His divinity and authority. Jesus declared what He has seen and heard in heaven. Jesus’ truthfulness astounded people who heard Him. Jesus spoke the very words of God. All that Jesus says is true. Jesus brings the “last words” of God. Jesus alone baptizes people with the Holy Spirit. Though fully God, Jesus lived as a man indwelled by the Holy Spirit. The Father placed all things in the hands of Jesus, His only Beloved Son.

From God this clear and powerful message has been sent out through John the Apostle to the world: “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.” One of the two destinies awaits every person. God’s wrath remains suspended over everyone who does not turn to Christ for salvation. God’s Word could not be clearer, and His gift could not be more glorious. He wipes away the debt and shame of sin. Jesus gives light and new life to those who believe in Him.