with my soul

Sitting in the pew,

knocked with convictions,

battered with guilt,

plagued with inadequacy,

I acknowledge:

I am a failure.

Sudden peace.

Unexpected tranquility.

Christ spoke in the stillness:

‘it is well. I love you.

I created you

and died to set you free.

Your failure makes My joy greater

and more authentic

in your victories.

You are my child.

I love you unconditionally,

and you are perfect in My sight.’

Anguish and despair are death

and through Christ, death is conquered.

Death, where is thy victory?

Where is thy sting?

In Christ I have my victory,

and I will defeat the despair of this world

in whatever guise or deception

it schemes.

Christ is my strength.

and Our unity is love.