“SO” What

For God SO loved the world that

He gave His only begotten Son,

that whoever believes in Him

should not perish, but have

everlasting life.

John 3:16

Right now in our church studies, we are being bathed in the gospel of John. The pastor will often ask us to read ahead to the portion of Scripture he plans to preach on the next Sunday. Along with these wonderful sermons, our Sunday school literature is also taking us through it's own venture in the very same book. John is probably one of the big favorites of God's people as it is so deep in it's teaching along with being as practical as beans and cornbread.

Anyone who knows me and my personal study of Scripture knows that in my reading and study, I try to be aware of little things, especially little words. In the past I have mentioned a couple of those but a couple of weeks ago, came across another one that I honestly had given little if any thought to. I have capitalized that word in the verse above.

We had just finished our study in the Minor Prophets this last quarter and began our study in the Gospel of John. Someone, very sincerely, thought I might be very happy about the switch in books. I kindly told her that a study in John was of great concern to me. Of those of us who have been in Sunday school as far back as we can remember, we may view the book as a “snap” for study. After all, we've seen folks healed, fed and Lazarus raised from the dead. We can recall any number of precious events in Jesus' ministry.

Here's my point and I'm still personally working on this for my concern is all we think we know or recall from John's writings. My concern for myself and others as I teach is that we sometimes like to stay on the familiar and surface information. We know and are comfortable with the familiar. What about all the good stuff that is just below the surface where there are the deeper things of the Word. Those things we do find, are treasures, rare jewels worthy of our even writing them down in a journal. Those things the Holy Spirit points out to us may not be long or even heavy to grasp.

Not too long ago, I noticed that little word SO in the beginning of John 3:16. I learned this verse in primary Sunday school and have quoted it personally and publicly for years. What else is there to know or notice. Like I said, I watch for the smallest of words in Scripture....But and All are two of them. After the word BUT in Scripture, one usually can find very important and life changing information. I try to be faithful in underlining that word. Then I do the same with the word ALL. I believe when God says ALL that it's just what He means.

In my reviewing the above verse, there it was...SO. It's a tiny word that expresses intensity. God didn't just love the world...He SO loved the world. God didn't just love you and me...He SO loved us....more love than we can ever measure or comprehend. I've just been splashing around in that phrase. Join me!

Thank You Father, just isn't enough but I do SO appreciate You SO loving me despite my being SO unworthy. Forgive my sin of ingratitude. Thank You for Jesus Who loved more than anyone on this earth ever could. In His precious name...Amen