God Loves Sinners?

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. — Romans 5:8

Love is the gift of self. Here, Paul says that God gave the gift of himself to us while we were still sinners. There is never any question about God's love for us. He is love; he can only ever be love. The question is, do I love God? Will I give the gift of self to him?

Naming It

When [the devil] lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. — John 8:44c

Those curious about dark spiritual forces and demonic activity don't have to look far. We think of places like Haiti, parts of Africa, or remote islands off the Indian coast. We warn against astrology, palm readers, tarot cards, ouija boards, and crystals. But aren't lies, spin, gaslighting, and other forms of deception the most apparent evidence of evil at work? Evil's signature scheme?

A Pointing Finger

"They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.” ⏤ Mark 12:44

Not an accusatory finger. But a pointing finger. I remember when my grandfather would put his left hand on my shoulder while he pointed at something with his right, helping me to see what he saw. Maybe a bird, a squirrel, or a particular tree. The Mosaic Law, parables, the Sermon on the Mount, and Jesus's royal law are all ways God helps us to see what he sees. Then suddenly, "There! I see it!"