Sunday, December 4, 2011

Loving Judas

Am I really doing what I say? Is that what’s revealed when it’s all on display? Am I really practicing what I preach, Or is there a higher level I must reach? Does my heart match up with the words I sing? Accountability is a tough but wonderful thing. God is not fooled but sees my whole heart, Not just the good, my intentions, but every part. Holiness is the standard He calls me to. His voice, His Word I must hear anew. When I experience betrayal and feel pain, When I feel alone, and tears fall like rain, Do I remember Jesus is my High Priest For the biggest stuff down to the least? Do I recall His great suffering for me That far surpasses what mine will ever be, How He loved and treated Judas just the same As the loyal, even knowing he would maim? He kept His heart clean and pure from offense, Loved unconditionally and walked in forgiveness. If Jesus could do that, and He lives in me, He can teach and empower me to do the same as He. Broken promises God knows all about, For I’ve often been guilty of that route. So grateful for love that covers a multitude of sins Because the weakness of my flesh too often wins. I must better learn to offer this grace When others’ weaknesses I must face. Purify my heart and my motives, Lord. Unforgiveness and resentment I cannot afford. Help me to be silent when my words are unkind, For my tongue is powerful to free or to bind. You’ve called me to a life where my self is dead, That by Your desires and plans I would be led. Thank You for a life and heart of laughter full! In spite of trouble, joy can reign and rule. May I maintain the heart and faith of a child in all And, for the enemy’s tricks and traps, never fall. I desire Your wisdom, Your eyes, Your view To offer kindness and patience to others as You do. For treating Your children lesser than You would, From my heart, I repent, as I certainly should. And I thank You for this opportunity to grow. Even when it’s hard, good seed I can sow. As I stretch, my tears will soften the ground, So, in the end, a good harvest can be found.