Larry’s Log

My friend, Dan, found an article that he termed about the problem with Christian Identity from the perspective of those who aren’t. I read the article and I have to agree with it. When someone calls themself a Christian I have to take them at their word regardless of their deeds. It goes back to the old “judge not lest you be judged” directive which is more or less telling us that only God knows the condition of one’s soul.

The problem with this seems to be that Christians get a lot of bad publicity due to people claiming to be Christians in conjunction with unchristian-like acts. I say, “seems to be,” because I don’t really see this as a problem when you consider that as a Christian I should be concerned about loving God and seeking to do His will rather than worrying about my reputation as a Christian. If I consistantly love God and consistantly seek to do His will my reputation ought to take care of itself.

So, instead of worrying about what other people think of Christians let me share with you a poem that expresses my feelings much more succinctly than I ever could on what it means when I tell you I’m a Christian:

WHEN I SAY, “I AM A CHRISTIAN”

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

Copyright 1988 Carol Wimmer
Used with permission from the author.

Just a little side note, that poem has been circulated on the internet with attribution going to Maya Angelou. While the style is similar to some of Dr. Angelou’s work it isn’t her’s. It’s Carol Wimmer’s.

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