God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son. . . .

— John 3:16

The siege of Leningrad (now St. Petersburg) was one of the longest and deadliest sieges in recorded history. During World War II, Nazi forces held the city hostage for over two years, severely disrupting supply lines. This resulted in a terrible famine, and over 800,000 civilians died.

People who survived the siege no longer took their daily bread for granted. Even years later, they would feel anxious about food shortages and sometimes resort to hoarding. They would also get really upset when they saw food wasted or played with.

Today we are focusing on what is probably the most famous verse in the Bible—John 3:16. It has been called “the gospel in a nutshell” because it summarizes all that God has done for us. But in some parts of the world this verse has become so familiar that its profound meaning is sometimes overlooked or taken for granted.

To people who are aware of their need for God, this text is as valuable as a loaf of bread to a victim of famine. Propelled by his love for humanity, God the Father sent his one and only Son to save us. Now those who believe in him are saved from death and destruction—they “shall not perish.”

Let us treasure this truth every moment of our lives!

Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your Son to save us. Knowing Jesus puts our hearts at peace. Help us to live a life of thanksgiving for your salvation! Amen.