In 1988, the poet Carol Wimmer, became concerned about the self-righteous, judgmental spirit she was seeing in some people because she felt strongly that being judgmental is a perversion of the Christian faith.
So, she wrote a poem about this:
“When I Say I Am a Christian”
“When I say, ‘I am a Christian,’ I’m not shouting, ‘I’ve been saved!’
I’m whispering, ‘I get lost!’ That’s why I chose this way.
When I say ‘I am a Christian,’ I don’t speak with human pride.
I’m confessing that I stumble – needing God 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 that I’ve failed and cannot ever pay the debt.
When I say, ‘I am a Christian,’ I don’t think I know it all.
I submit to my confusion asking humbly to be taught.
When I say ‘I am a Christian,’ I’m not claiming to be perfect.
My flaws are far 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 heartache which is why I seek 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.”
By Carol Wimmer
As a Christian are YOU called to be judgmental of others or to see the “plank in YOUR own eye first?”
SMILE AND FORGIVE!! IT’S THE ONLY WAY TO LIVE!!
