Christian Sister

This recently came thru on an e-mail chain from a friend and it is so good, I couldn't believe I hadn't read it earlier. I suppose our use of it without permission is questionable but it is so wonderful, I hope Ms. Angelou is willing to share. It certainly covers my own meaning when I say I'm a Christian.

BEAUTIFUL CHRISTIAN SISTER

by Maya Angelou

'A woman's heart should be so hidden in Christ

That a man should have to seek Him first to find her.'

When I say... 'I am a Christian' I'm not shouting 'I'm clean livin''

I am 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 was just a simple sinner who received God's good grace, somehow!

Pretty is as Pretty does..... But beautiful is just plain beautiful!