The people of Paul's time held strong convictions about who
was considered acceptable to God and who was not. Many Jewish individuals
believed it was inconceivable for God to welcome Gentiles—non-Jews—into His
family and grant them salvation. Their perspectives were shaped by a
deep-seated belief that God's promises were exclusive to their own heritage.
Yet God's mercy defies human expectations and boundaries.
Today’s Scripture reminds us of the astonishing truth that
God’s love and calling are not limited by human assumptions, lineage, or
cultural divisions. His grace stretches beyond barriers to embrace those who
may seem far removed from His promises.
Regardless of our history or circumstances, God’s invitation into His
family is open to everyone.
Paul vividly illustrates this in his writings. He quotes the Prophet Hosea when he says, “I
will call them my people who were not my people" (Hosea 2:23),
highlighting the sovereign and unrestrained nature of God’s mercy, showing that
His grace transcends the limits imposed by human thinking.
Through His immeasurable love, God extends His salvation to
the Gentiles—those once regarded as outsiders.
For many, it was a revolutionary and mind-altering revelation: that
Gentiles could be counted among God’s chosen people.
What does this mean for us?
It means that no one is beyond the reach of God’s calling. It means that
the labels placed on us by others—or even by ourselves—do not define us in
God’s eyes. Those who feel forgotten, unloved, excluded, or unworthy are the
very ones He includes in His radical plan of salvation! His grace isn’t
confined to a select few; it is a river that flows freely, welcoming all who
respond to His call.
So, “who’s in and who’s out?” Anyone and everyone who turns to God,
accepting His love and grace by faith, is joyfully welcomed “in” to His family.
And as for “out,” no one is beyond God's welcoming grace. His heart
remains open to all, continually calling everyone to come to Him, no matter how
far away they may feel. It’s not about
exclusion—it’s about invitation.
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