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. It’s called “When I say I am a Christian” and it reads like this:
“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.”
Which of these hits home to YOU in your life?
OUR PRAYERS HAVE NO EXPIRATION DATE! YOU NEVER KNOW WHEN,
WHERE AND HOW GOD WILL ANSWER THEM!
