• As attributed to author Maya Angelou (who is said not to be the original author—see below)

When I say… “I am a Christian”

I’m not shouting “I’m clean liven’.”

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!

• Original Version attributed to correct author Carol Wimmer

WHEN I SAY, “I AM A CHRISTIAN”

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

Copyright 1988 Carol Wimmer

Pasted from <http://www.carolwimmer.com/thePoem.cfm>