March 24
For Love
That Saves All
"God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son. Anyone who believes in him will not die but will have eternal life."
John 3:16 (NIrV)
Gina had always been close to her parents. As an only child, she cherished their love and guidance through her life. But as she grew in her Christian faith, one worry weighed heavily on her heart—her parents, now in their late seventies, did not believe in Jesus. Raised in a secular household, Gina had come to Christ in her twenties, but her parents remained indifferent to matters of faith.
One evening, Gina sat at her kitchen table, staring at her Bible. “Lord,” she whispered, “I love my parents so much. I want them to know You, to understand Your love. Please help me reach them.”
The following weekend, Gina visited her parents, bringing along a pie she’d baked. They sat together on the porch, reminiscing about old times. “You’ve changed a lot over the years,” her mom said suddenly. “In a good way. You’re calmer, more patient. What’s your secret?”
Gina hesitated. “It’s my faith, Mom. Knowing Jesus has changed everything for me. He’s given me peace and hope.”
Her dad raised an eyebrow but stayed silent. Encouraged by her mom’s curiosity, Gina shared about God’s love and how Jesus’ sacrifice had given her a new perspective on life. But as she spoke, her dad shook his head. “I’m glad it works for you, Gina, but we’re too old to change. Besides, we’ve lived good lives. Isn’t that enough?”
That night, Gina knelt by her bed, tears streaming down her face. “God, I don’t know what else to do. I feel so helpless. Please soften their hearts. Help them see how much they need You.”
The next few weeks were filled with moments of doubt and hope. Gina continued to spend time with her parents, showing them love through her actions—helping with errands, cooking meals, and simply being present. Slowly, she noticed small changes. Her dad started asking questions about her church, and her mom began listening to Christian music Gina played during visits.
One Sunday, Gina invited them to attend a service. To her surprise, they agreed. The sermon was on John 3:16, and as the pastor spoke about God’s incredible love, Gina saw tears in her mother’s eyes. Later that week, her mom called. “Gina, your dad and I have been thinking about what we heard. Could we talk more about Jesus?”
That conversation marked the beginning of their journey to faith. Though Gina had doubted at times, God had been working in their hearts all along, reminding her that His love is powerful enough to reach anyone, at any age.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your boundless love that seeks and saves us all.
I lift up my loved ones who don’t yet know You, asking that You soften their hearts and open their eyes to the truth of Jesus.
Help me to be patient and faithful, trusting in Your perfect timing.
Thank You for giving us hope and eternal life through Your Son.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
