READ: GENESIS 1:27; 1 JOHN 4:7-19

You probably already know that snowflakes are remarkably unique from one another. And the reason each snowflake has a one-of-a-kind crystal structure is because every developing flake experiences slightly different atmospheric conditions as it falls from the sky to the ground. But have you ever thought about what they have in common? Even with all their differences, each snowflake is made of frozen water and has six points.

It’s like that with people too. No two people are exactly the same or have the same experiences, but we often forget that we’re also alike in many ways. People from different parts of the world have their own languages and customs, but deep down we all have the same feelings and desires. We all want to feel loved and accepted and valued.

Another thing all people have in common? We’re all created in God’s image, and He loves us all so much He sent His Son, Jesus, to live among us, die for us, and rise again from the dead so that everyone who trusts in Him could live with God forever. And one day, Jesus will return to make all things new, free from sin and death. As Christians, we are now God’s children, we are forgiven and clean as fresh snow (Isaiah 1:18), and we “are being transformed into his [Jesus’s] image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit” (2 Corinthians 3:18). God calls us to share His love with others—even those who seem different—because we all have the same need for Him. Through the Holy Spirit, we are empowered to love others as God loves us, accept others as God accepts us, and value others as God values us (Matthew 10:29-31; John 13:34; Romans 15:7; 1 John 4:19).

So, as we look at snowflakes, we can remember that Jesus made each snowflake, and He made each of us. He calls us to enjoy our beautiful differences. And as we rest in His great love for us, we can show that same love to everyone we encounter. • A. W. Smith

• Humans are remarkably diverse and yet have so much in common. What are some differences between you and your friends and family? What are some similarities? Consider taking some time to thank God for creating such an amazing world with so many different types of people!

• Today, how could you show Jesus’s love to someone who is different from you? How could remembering what we have in common with all people help us walk in love toward one another?

Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 1 John 4:11 (NIV)