Seventy X Seven
Seventy X Seven (1)
I have no way to know I am better than you,
You have no way to know that I'm not,
Though no human man-sired serves as Judge of what's true,
Seems "IN CHRIST" folk pass judgment a lot!
But we all share one mother whatever our sin
And our sin's sure a sign we're related!
If I can't forgive you, how do I begin
To Love God or myself? I'm elated,
In fact, by how simple it seems to please God,
Yet, forgiveness is not without danger!
Depravity penetrates every facade!
Are you Tonto, or sidekick, Lone Ranger?
Forgiveness of others does not create waves,
(Though its gravity's felt till time's end),
Or require recognition a sinful heart craves!
With no Grace, do we only pretend
To be Christians? How then are we better than those
Who might claim that they're not? Is Grace real
Or a hammer we beat others with? Do the toes
You immerse in Christ's blood make you feel
‘All that sure’ you're a Saint? Not if God says, "You ain't!"
Best not judge, and then pray Grace is given
The worst of us all! There’s a chance pride could taint
If it’s that (and not Grace) that you’ve craven,
Which should give you pause if you think magic words
”Christ, I love you!” are keys to God’s kingdom,
You’re sure your heart’s changed when your actions are turds
That don’t shine and no more than an end run
To cover your failures, attempt to save face?
Is this product the max, or the start
Of forgiveness for hearts that are longing for Grace?
Just to practice God’s Grace is an art!
Brian Johnston
1st of February in 2020
Poet's Notes:
(1) Matthew 18:21-22 New King James Version
Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?”
Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.
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