"I'm a Christian"

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Doug has been sick today--so, between worship services and lunch with my parents, the babies and Wyatt made sure I had no time to write, much less think. But, in the silence of the evening before midnight when the 18 wheelers start hauling gravel 24-5 again, I ran across a poem. I'm not sure how I have missed it, but it speaks my heart. Were it not for God's grace, there is no telling where I would be. I like to think I'd have turned out fine, but I know without Jesus, I'd have fallen apart long ago. I hope Maya Angelou's poem speaks to you, too:

"I'M A CHRISTIAN"
By: Maya Angelou

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not shouting "I'm clean livin."
I'm whispering "I was lost,"
Now I'm found and forgiven.

When I say..."I am a Christian"
I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble
and need CHRIST 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 need HIS strength to carry on.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed
and need God to clean my mess.

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

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain,
I have my share of heartaches
So I call upon His name.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not holier than thou,
I'm just a simple sinner
who received God's good grace, somehow.