YYYSunday, June 03, 2007
When I say, "I am a Christian" by Carol Wimmer
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
Cool. This poem was written cos the poet was worried about the increasing attitude of self-righteousness among Christians (see carolwimmer.com).
I think it's true that it's so easy to fall into this trap- to think that I'm always right or that I know everything just because I think I truly know God.
It's easy too to get complacent, to think that just cos I know God I am guaranteed a place in heaven and I don't have to work for it. It is easy to start thinking that I can go about my own life then turn to God when I meet with some trouble and He will automatically answer my prayers.
Sigh sometimes I think its really tiring to be a Christian because there is always this struggle against my natural tendency to sin and to worry. If only I could forever have a peaceful and loving heart that trusts entirely in God. Life would become so easy!
But I can't change myself, so I guess all I can do is to pray and turn to Him for rest and hope. Yup.
Ah it's dinner time. Byeee!
6:47 PM
