Bold and Humble

In 1 Peter 4:6, we read, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Proverbs 16:5 puts it a little more strongly, “All those who are arrogant are an abomination to the Lord.” No doubt, when we Christians act arrogantly or judgmentally, we are missing the mark.

I love Carol Wimmer’s beautiful poem: “When I say I am a Christian.” Her poem is both bold in faith and humble before God. 

“When I say I am a Christian” reads like this:

“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.”

Let us pray: God of Grace, we thank you for the poets and prophets of the world, people who so beautifully articulate the faith. We do thank you for your grace, mercy, and love. Help us always to try to live justly, love kindness, and walk humbly before you. Amen.