This poem was sent to me by a long-time friend and classmate who was a member of the first seminary class that included women to be ordained into the ministry of the Lutheran Church in America. She’s retired and dealing with some health issues, but continues in ministry through e-mails and other contacts. I’m so grateful for both her friendship and ministry, and thought this would make an appropriate devotion for this week.
When I say that ‘I am a Christian’, I am not shouting that ‘I am clean living.’
I’m whispering ‘I was lost, but 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 an old sinner saved by grace!
Jesus said: “You are the light of the world. . . . No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14a, 15-16)
Your friend in Christ,
Mary Rogers