I received a text which I didn’t understand. I later learned it had been sent to me inadvertently and was meant for another person. I could relate. A couple of weeks ago, I sent an email to a neighbor about making applesauce, and mistakenly sent it to the head of the ministries department at Denver Seminary. Gulp. It couldn’t be undone. I immediately sent a follow-up email, asking him if he would like some applesauce.
In our email and text traffic, we do send messages that are only intended for one person or a specific group. We don’t wish to include anyone else, though it might happen on occasion. When I read the story of Peter and his dream in Acts 10, I saw how God made it clear that HIs grace, love and salvation are intentionally meant for all people: even Cornelius, a Roman Gentile. No one is excluded—no race, gender, age, religious persuasion; and more importantly, no sinner. God’s gift of love, salvation and grace is offered freely to all. He willingly gives the Holy Spirit to anyone who believes. Praise God that we are all intentional recipients!
“For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people” (Titus 2:11).
“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God. (John 1:12)