December 28 — Titus 3:4–7

But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us—not by the righteous deeds we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by His grace, we would become heirs with the hope of eternal life.
— Titus 3:4–7


In these verses, Paul offers a beautiful summary of the gospel in the language of Christmas: “the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared.” The birth of Jesus is the appearance—the shining forth—of God’s kindness. Through Him, the love of God steps into the world in a visible, tangible, unmistakable way. Advent has been preparing our hearts to recognize this truth: Jesus is not simply the bearer of God’s message; He is the embodiment of God’s mercy. His arrival reveals a God who saves not because we earned it, but because His heart overflows with compassion.

Paul stresses that salvation is entirely the work of God’s grace. We are not rescued by our attempts to be good, but by God’s generous mercy. Through Jesus, the Holy Spirit washes us clean, renews our hearts, and makes us new. Christmas is not only about a Child born in Bethlehem; it is about new birth offered to every believer. The One who lay in a manger becomes the One through whom we are reborn into the hope of everlasting life. The generosity of God overflows as He pours out His Spirit, justifying us, renewing us, and making us heirs of His kingdom.

As you reflect on this passage, consider these questions: Where do you most need to remember the kindness of God in your life today? Are there places where you are still tempted to rely on your own goodness rather than God’s mercy? How has the Holy Spirit renewed you in recent months or years? And what does it mean to you personally that you are an heir—an heir of God, held securely in the hope of eternal life?

For today’s practice, take a moment to pause and breathe deeply, imagining yourself inhaling God’s kindness and exhaling any striving or self-reliance. Whisper the prayer, “Renew me, Holy Spirit.” Then, think of a small act of kindness you can offer today as a reflection of God’s kindness toward you—perhaps a gentle word, a helpful action, or a note of encouragement. Let this act be your way of participating in the generosity God has poured out on you.


Heavenly Father, 

Thank You for revealing Your kindness through Jesus Christ. Thank You for saving me by Your mercy and renewing me through the Holy Spirit. Help me rest in Your grace and live as an heir of the eternal hope You have given. 

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

- 

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