When I Say... I am a Christian

This poem captures a lot of what it means to be a Christian: it is not about being “holier than thou”, but simply recognizing that Man is flawed and needy. This poem helped me identify that I am loved even though I may have sinned.

***Quoted from my friend recent bulletin post.***

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.

***I am a Christian by Carol Wimmer (Original Version)***

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