Poem by Maya Angelou found on Lillian D’Costa’s blog:

When I say… “I am a Christian”
I’m not shouting “I’m clean living.’”
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!

Maya Angelou

7 thoughts on “Poem – I am a Christian

  1. I had the privilege to read Maya’s autobiography. Wow.

    But I hadn’t read this poem of hers. I can envision it as a ‘reading’ done by a group of teenagers.

  2. @Angie – I can see that easily.
    @George – I agree.
    @Jan – Yes, it’s a good thing we should keep in mind.
    @E.T. – Interesting to imagine the context. I am curious what made you think of teenagers.

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