The magnitude of what Christ has done for us hit me in a new way this morning. Christ died for us; a horrible death on a cross; a barbaric and excruciating death. Why? So that we may be forgiven of our sins, be washed anew, deemed as righteous through Him, and have a relationship with our Heavenly Father.

“He committed no sin,

and no deceit was found in his mouth.”

When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” For “you were like sheep going astray,” but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

1 Peter 2 – 22 - 25

Would you lay down your life for your friend? (John 15:13) Perhaps! I know I would. My best friend, yep, I’d lay down my life for her. My husband, you bet, I wouldn’t even think twice. And my kids, not a doubt, I would do it. These people are the center of my life and I would definitely give my life for their best interest.

But what about my neighbor? Well maybe. I don’t know them all that well, but they seem like nice people. I would at least consider it. What about the guy that cuts you off in rush hour traffic? Hmmm… let me consider a little longer. Or the boss at work? Or the uncompromising co-worker? What about the “just-mean” people in your life? It’s a little harder to say we would lay down our life for someone like that, right?

BUT Jesus, he gave his life for all! EVERY.SINGLE.ONE.OF.US. The entire lot! The whole mess! He gave his life for all of us. He gave his life for those who have it all together (I’ll leave myself out of this group!). He gave his life for those of us trying to get it all together, and thankfully he gave his life for those of us that seem incapable of getting it together! That’s good news brothers and sisters!!

 "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief."

1 Timothy 1:15

What if we viewed everyone we came into contact with as someone worthy enough for Christ to DIE on the cross for? Would it change your viewpoint of them? Would we be able to judge less and love more? Would you be willing to introduce them to a Savior that laid down his life for THEM?