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

Yeah, I know, we were in Romans 8.

So this is out of order.

Still, yesterday’s verse gets me to thinking about this one, and about the love the Father has for us.

Not fluffy love, not Fifth Grade “If you like me check this box” love.

Real love.  The kind you can’t get at a Hallmark store.

Real love sacrifices.  Real love gives, even when there is no reasonable expectation of a return on the investment.  Real love sees you at your worst, and does not turn away.

While we were still sinners.  While we were totally unworthy and unlovable.  Beyond pot bellies and vanishing hairlines.  Beyond bad hair and no makeup.  While we were steeped in darkness, inside and out, Jesus died for us.

For you.

Want him to prove his love?

He did.  We call it the Cross.

When I write these One-a-Days, I often call you “Beloved.”  I’m not putting the moves on you, nor am I trying to be J. Vernon McGee.  I’m praying, along with Paul, that you, “May…grasp how high and long and wide and deep is the love of Christ.”

In the Song of Songs, God gives us a picture of the love between a man and a woman.  Beyond that, though, he paints a picture of Christ’s love for his Church.

He calls the Church his Beloved.

He calls you his Beloved.

And so will I.

Happy Friday, Beloved.