Like Ads for Love | Lent Devotional Day 14

Exploring the Meaning of Jesus’ Death
March 3, 2026
Written by Dave Merrill

Like Ads for Love

Scripture:

Look! I’m standing at the door and knocking. If any hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to be with them, and will have dinner with them, and they will be with me. (Revelation 3:20)

Reflection:

The Moral Influence view of atonement reveals a God who is unendingly invitational. God does not force, threaten, or coerce. Instead, God continually reaches toward us in love. The cross does not shout condemnation; it extends welcome. It shows us a God who keeps knocking, who keeps inviting, who keeps making space at the table.

It makes me think about the way companies market their products. Ads follow us across screens and platforms. They learn our habits, tailor their message, and meet us exactly where we are. It can feel intrusive and exhausting. Yet behind it is a simple truth: something is being offered, persistently and personally.

Now imagine that kind of persistence without manipulation. Imagine a love that meets you where you are, not to sell you something, but to restore you. God’s love is not generic. It is personal. It is not distant. It seeks you out in your particular fears, wounds, and longings. Revelation describes Christ standing at the door and knocking. The image is gentle but steady. God does not break the door down. God waits, invites, and desires communion.

In this view of atonement, the cross is the clearest knock. It reveals a God whose mercy is patient, whose love is tailored to our lives, and whose invitation never expires.

Prayer:

God, thank you for being persistent in your love for me. Thank you for meeting me where I am, not where I pretend to be. Help me to trust that your invitation is always for my healing and restoration. When I resist or turn away, gently draw me back. Form my heart through your mercy, and teach me to reflect that same patient love to others. Amen.

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