His Children

"How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God. And that we are!" 1 John 3:1
I have thought much about the truth stated in this verse this past week... the depth of belonging that is signified when God calls us His children. There are many children that have been part of my life to varying degrees over the years of my adult life. About 30 of them have been foster children in our home. As many or more homeless youth have been under our roof as well. All are recipients of a warm bed, hot meals, a listening hear, a hug of encouragement and some "motherly" advice. Yet, there are only four children in my life that I call "my children": Rebekah, Jonathan, Daniel and Stephanie. What is it that makes that distinction and bestows on these four children alone that position? I believe it is the greatness of the love that I have for these four children. I care about all the children that live in my home, but it is only my four children that I love to the depths of my heart.
What an honor to be called a "child of God." All people are recipients of a beautiful creation, air to breath, the fruit of the earth to eat and God's revelation through His Word. Yet only some are given the "right to become children of God" (John 1:12). Oh the depths of His love for us who are called "God's children." "God demonstrates His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8) Is that the ultimate demonstration of love, a love that leads God to call us His children?