But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
(Romans 5:8 NIV)
A few years ago, I had a student who I grew to love. At first glance, there was probably not much to love about him. For a four-year-old, he was very tiny, still acted like a baby and had a constant runny nose. In fact, many teachers were quick to push him away. To be honest, I did too, at first. But then he hurt himself. Who wouldn’t feel sorry for a crying child in pain? I befriended that little guy and yes, I even dared to wipe his runny nose!
God loved us in spite of our sins, and “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” He died for us while we were still a mess and not worth loving. And while we were pushing Him away in our rebellion and disobedience, He was trying to embrace us. He couldn’t bear to see us die in our sins. It was His death that reconciled us to God and made us His friends. Christ wiped away our sins.
“God loves you just the way you are, but He refuses to leave you that way. He wants you to be just like Jesus.” Max Lucado
Rising with the Son 