A verse.
A date. A response.

This is an immensely powerful verse because it brings the all-encompassing nature of God—and the love made known to us through Jesus Christ—into focus. That love is not reserved for good times or bad, for triumphs or disasters. It reaches into every waking moment of every day and every human life. All things are from Him, sustained through Him and ultimately directed to Him. Few verses capture the scale of God’s power, presence and love so completely.

Jesus was clear that the only way to the Father is through Him. But does this verse, from the Sermon on the Mount, also offer hope that the goodness in others—those who may not know Christ—may be given the ultimate reward? A connection with God is essential for our wellbeing, happiness and, ultimately, salvation. Yet perhaps this is also a hint that, most of all, goodness ought to prevail, no matter where it is found.

Their hearts had been stirred before their eyes were opened. Jesus had been present before they recognised Him. Looking back allowed them to see that the apparently ordinary journey had carried the beginnings of transformation. Some people may already have been met by Jesus without yet knowing His name.