While I was still a sinner

The Word:
“While we were yet sinners, Jesus died for us.” Romans 5:8

Prayer:
Jesus, how can we share the Gospel of love, the message of hope, proclaim the truth of forgiveness, or do an act of service in a condescending, condemning and commanding spirit? It’s like we Christians say to the world, “Hey, you down there. You have transgressed God and my standards. Instead of the “Be”-attitudes, I’ve got a list of do’s and don’ts for you to follow. If you want my approval and want to be one of us (the Christian elite), walk this way, talk this way, and maybe someday you can be as holy as me…” Jesus, I’m so glad you didn’t treat me like that. You came to seek and to save the lost. You loved me, gave me hope, proclaimed forgiveness and laid down your life for me while I was still a sinner. You treated me with dignity, even when my actions didn’t deserve it. Make me like you so the world will see the true you, and help me to remember how I myself was once lost.

Act of Devotion:
Think of someone you may have looked down upon because of their lifestyle, actions, choices or attitudes. Have you condemned them in your mind as less deserving of respect, honor and love? God loves them despite themselves. God loves you despite yourself too. Apologize to them.

Written by Bob Lenz for Life Promotions