God proved His love by sending Christ while we were still far from Him.
“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”Romans 5:8 (KJV)
What does “Proof” mean in Romans 5:8?
The Greek word commendeth means to demonstrate or prove. Paul says God did not wait for us to become worthy before showing His love.
Going deeper
Paul builds his case with care. Rarely would someone die for a righteous person, he says, and perhaps for a good person someone might dare to die. But God's love is of a different kind. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. He did not wait for us to clean up, to improve, or to ask. The love came first. That is what makes it proof. Anyone can love the lovable, but this love reached those who were far away.
It can be hard to receive this kind of love. Many of us believe that we must earn it. Paul tells us that the earning is not required. We are already loved, and the cross is the evidence. As Holy Week draws near, spend a few moments letting that sink in. You do not need to have your life together. You are loved as you are, and that love is strong enough to change you. Say thank you, and let that gratitude shape your week.
Reflect
How would your week change if you believed you are already loved as you are?
Pray
Father, thank You for proving Your love while I was still far from You. Help me to receive it, and let it change me. In Jesus' name, amen.
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