They came from a variety of backgrounds and places. Some were of Jewish descent while others shared a different heritage. Some were poor and could barely make ends meet while others had plenty of wealth. They lived in different locations and celebrated different cultures. They were a diverse people, but they received the same promise.

They received the promise presented by Christ. That is, forgiveness of sins and reconciliation with God through grace. This was the same promise for everyone.

Paul writes to the Galatians in chapter 3, “So in Christ Jesus, you are all children of God through faith. For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ than you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs, according to the promise.”

The promise was offered to everyone and the only deciding factor was acceptance. The Lord only looked at the heart and nothing else.

The Lord has not changed. He still only looks at the heart and nothing else. You and I may be part of a diverse group of people, but the promise made to us is the same. We come from a wide variety of backgrounds and places, but we can share in the Lord’s grace.

The Bible challenges us to look at one another’s heart rather than outward appearance.

How can we do this today?

• Intentionally speak to someone different from you. Start a conversation with someone you might not normally approach. Differences in age, culture, income, education, or background do not diminish a person’s value before God.
• Examine your first impressions. When meeting someone new, ask yourself, “Am I making assumptions based on appearance, clothing, accent, occupation, or social status?” Challenge yourself to see people the way God sees them.
• Remember your own need for grace. It is easier to show grace to others when we remember how much grace we have received. None of us earned God’s promise; it was given through Christ. Keeping this in mind helps us avoid pride and favoritism.
• Welcome others into your circle. Invite someone to join you for coffee, lunch, a church activity, or a conversation. Many people feel isolated or overlooked. A simple invitation can communicate the love of Christ.
• Focus on spiritual identity first. When you encounter fellow believers, remember that your deepest connection is not politics, nationality, race, income level, or personal preferences. Your shared identity in Christ is what unites you.
• Look for opportunities to serve. Serve someone without expecting anything in return. Acts of kindness remind us that every person is valuable to God and worthy of love and respect.

Today’s Challenge

Choose one person today whom you might normally overlook. Learn their name, hear part of their story, or encourage them in some way. As you do, remember that the same grace that reached you is available to them. God looks at the heart, and He calls us to do the same.

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