Day 14 - No One Is Excluded

1 Timothy 2:1 - 2:7 (NIV)

2 I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time. 7 And for this purpose I was appointed a herald and an apostle—I am telling the truth, I am not lying—and a true and faithful teacher of the Gentiles.

The Bible uses the word “ALL” a lot! It is radically inclusive, and since Jesus gave His life for all people, no one is excluded from the invitation for forgiveness!

The truth is that Jesus died for all who came before Him and all who will come after Him. He died for every race, gender, age, personality and religious affiliation! He died for those who love Him and those who hate Him, those who follow Him and those who actively work against Him. God is the original author of radical inclusivity!

Is this how we see God? Knowing this should radically shape how we see others – especially those we may find difficult or different from ourselves.

Take some time to reflect on how inclusive you are of those who are different to you. Ask God to help expand your love for ALL people and to see them as He does.