But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of any works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy. (Titus 3:4)
We hear it said often: “She’s such a nice person. There’s a special place in heaven for her.” Hmmm…is being good all that is needed to spend eternity with God?
Not according to today’s Bible verse. In fact, not according to all of God’s word. None of us are worthy of God’s mercy yet, He blesses us with grace through the Holy Spirit which is all that is needed to lead us to eternal life. Nothing we do—whether it’s good work, kind deeds, or sacrifices can gain us eternal salvation.
Once God has called us to Himself and calls us His own, there is nothing we can do to make ourselves more righteous in His eyes. It is all God’s kindness towards us, His love for us. His tender heartedness towards His elect declares us righteous and forgiven of all sin—forever.
No matter how much good work you do, how much kindness you show, you cannot gain more favor with God. And, because God showed us grace and kindness, we in turn must show kindness to everyone we meet.
As Christians, we should be known for our kindness. Make it a goal this Advent to be zealous for God—make it a point to go out of your way and out of your comfort zone to show kindness to those in need.
Merciful and loving God, cause me to be your hands and feet to everyone I meet. May those I see this day and every day see your loving kindness in me. Amen.
Chris Naessens is Administrative Assistant for Human
Resources at Liberty Lutheran and a member and deacon at Oreland Evangelical
Presbyterian Church.
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