SUMMARY: Grace
OVERVIEW: God gives purification laws for new mothers. God provides a means for all, including the poor, to present a sacrifice. Verse eight describes the offering Jesus’ parents gave in Luke 2.
BIG IDEA: No matter who we are or where we’re from, God receives us.
KEY VERSE: Luke 2:22 (Joseph and Mary present Jesus to the Lord)
Then it was time for their purification offering, as required by the law of Moses after the birth of a child; so his parents took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
Everyone is welcome in my family. Anyone who turns to me will be heard and received. I am a God of love and grace, and I want to be in a relationship with you and everyone you see today. Come to me. Encourage others to come to me. Break the stereotype many have that my love is limited to a particular type or group of people. Be an active example that all are to be loved. Treat others with respect by listening to them, having meals with them, and inviting them into your home.
I do not base my love on performance, talent, income, or any measure of worldly success. I love you because that is my character; it’s who I am and what I do. Stop striving to earn my love and receive it. I am God and creator of all—that means I have bestowed value on you and all around the world. Love my people and my creation. Don’t just talk about my love. Show my love.
NEXT STEP
Remember that God loves everyone you see today, so treat each person with respect. Go out of your way to show kindness to someone others often ignore.
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