"Here is a trustworthy saying worthy of full acceptance:
Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners - of whom I am the worst."
(1 Timothy 1:15)
Christians sometimes have the reputation of being self-righteous, looking down at others. Let it never be so with us. At the very heart of all we're about is Jesus coming to earth to rescue us. And Christmas is a good time to think about how much we needed that rescue.
The problem is not just how much we mess up our lives. Whether we're in a total mess, or whether we look quite together outwardly, our sickening attitude towards our loving God casts a huge shadow. Have we loved him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength? Have we cared for him as we ought? The ultimate judge is not pleased. Yet he loves, and sent his Son, Jesus, to save even us, his enemies.
"And when I think that God his Son not sparing
Sent him to die, I scarce can take it in.
That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing,
He bled and died to take away my sin."
Can you take it in? People like us ... loved so much. Praise God.
If you are reading this as someone who is not a church member, but a friend of ours, please forgive us if we keep trying to rope you in. But please understand - we're not doing it for our ego; it's because we are so astounded at the fact of Christmas, that Jesus came to save sinners like us, that we want others to know too. As someone has put it, we are merely beggars telling other beggars where to find bread. And what joy can be found in knowing what Jesus Christ has done for us!
