Being Christian

Being a Christian is not something I take lightly, nor is it something in which I find cause to personally boast. Rather than turning people to Christ, boasting only serves to turn them away. 

I'll admit that there was a time when I spoke of being Christian with an air of superiority as though I had done some great thing to earn this title, but I've since learned I've nothing to brag about. Of my own, I am nothing and without Him, I can do nothing. I did not choose Him—He chose me. And as I am still a work in progress, on a good day I can seem like a bit of a hot mess.

Yet Jesus still loves me, which is one of the many reasons my earnest desire is that everyone could experience the unconditional, unending, unfailing love of Jesus. He is altogether lovely, holy, perfect, righteous, and so much more. As a believer, Christ graciously allows me the privilege of demonstrating His mercy and love through the way I interact with others. I was considering this when I discovered the following poem today on the Internet, which helped to remind me that as I walk in humility before Him, I allow others to better see Christ in me.

When I Say I Am Christian

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!

Written by Carol Wimmer