For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.  For one will scarcely die for a righteous person-though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die- but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:6-8

Many teachers today have abandoned the subject of sin. Some say, “People already struggle with poor self-esteem.   Talking about sin will only make self-hatred worse.”  But by avoiding the subject of sin, we can not have an accurate picture of the love of God.  Joyce Carol Oates, a contemporary author says, “We human beings are the species that clamors to be lied to.”  We want someone to tell us that we’re not that bad ~ that God should love us because we’re basically good people.  Here’s the dilemma. If God only loves good people, how magnificent is His love?  Not very impressive at all.   God’s love is only stunning when it is set against a backdrop of my sinfulness.

When I realize that I could walk to the ends of the earth but not find God, I will appreciate the cross.  When I realize that I could spend every last ounce of energy giving to others selflessly but end up in hell, I will appreciate the cross.  God’s love came in the face of Christ at a time when all hope for me was lost.  I was limp, in a weakened state, trying to earn His favor but failing miserably.  My sin separated me from His heart.  I was completely powerless. 

Then Jesus came!  He saw my sin but came anyway.  When I didn’t want Him, He wanted me.  When I wanted to try everything and everyone else first, He still loved me and came.  See what kind of love He offered?

If I, or someone I know, is bored by the subject of the love of God, perhaps we have lost sight of what kind of love it took for Jesus to come and save us.  His love cost Him everything…and He gave it all up willingly so He could say to each of us, “Not guilty anymore!” 

You invited me to come close to You, and then to live and find my life in You.  You have declared that absolutely nothing can threaten our relationship.  What love is this!  Amen