But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth 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 might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.

In spite of all of the sin we was steeped in, God saved us because he loved us and he is kind. He had mercy on us, and did not give us the punishment we deserved. How wonderful it is to live life knowing the God of the universe loves me and wants me to be in his family!

“Washing of rebirth” is a reference to the cleansing of our sin by rebirth in Jesus Christ. It is the spiritual reality that the sacrament of baptism is displaying. We were dead in our sin. But washed in the blood of Christ, and arisen and reborn into a new life, a life controlled by the Spirit of God.

The Spirit of God that was given, was not given in a small and measured way. No! His Spirit was poured out on us in power and excess. He overwhelms our senses and conquers our stubborn sinful will. He cleans out the houses of our hearts with his purifying fire.

And finally, we have become heirs with him. He loves us and desires for us to spend eternity with him.

Lord, thank you for rescuing me from sin and saving me out of your love and kindness. I am eager to spend eternity with you in heaven, as your child and in support of your goodness and glory!