a poem

Patrick Johnson read this for us at a Worship at Newbold. It stuck with me, and I've been thinking about its implications ever since. So often just saying "I am a Christian" can be difficult, although I know it shouldn't be. Is it because I think I know what people assume when i say 'Christian'? (that was a weird sentence, psychobable? hehe)
Here's a poem that incapsulates what it means to say 'I am a Christian' in a way that I never would have been able to do it.


When I say..."I am a Christian"
I'm not shouting "I am saved"
I'm whispering "I was lost"
That is why I chose this way.

When I say..."I am a Christian"
I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble
And need someone to be my guide.

When I say..."I am a Christian"
I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak
And pray for strength to carry on.

When I say..."I am a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed
And cannot ever pay the debt.

When I say..."I am a Christian"
I'm not claiming to be perfect,
My flaws are all too visible,
But God believes I'm worth it.

When I say..."I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain
I have my share of heartaches
Which is why I speak His name.

When I say..."I am a Christian"
I do not wish to judge.
I have no authority.
I only know I'm loved.

Carol S. Wimmer