From late last night...

Last night I was listening to all of the music that ITunes labels "inspirational" as I played solitaire and sang along to the music. Eventually the song, How Deep the Fathers Love for Us, began to play. I recognized it as a song that Vashti Grim, a friend from church, has sung for special music at church and instantly remembered how much I liked the song itself, but after listening to it again, I realized I had never really listed to the words, which caught my attention as I tried to sing along. As I got to the third verse, the words of the song brought tears to my eyes. "Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice call out among the scoffers." How often have I kept quiet during a theological debate at school because I was embarrassed to admit I was a Christian? I many times have I mocked God by doing this? How selfish have I been by not sharing my relationship with Him with my "school friends" and class mates? This song really reminded me how much my Heavenly Father has done for me and how little I often do for him. I pray that I keep this thought and the words of this song close to my heart, that I may strive to be a better testimony to all those around me.

How deep the Fathers love for us

how vast beyond all measure

that He should give His only son

and make a wretch His treasure

how great the pain of searing loss

the Father turns his face away

as wounds which mar the chosen one

bring many souls to glory

behold the Man upon the cross

my sin upon His shoulders

ashamed I hear my mocking voice

call out among the scoffers

it was my sin that held Him there

until it was accomplished

His dying breath has brought me life

I know that it is finished

I will not boast in anything

no gifts, no power, no wisdom

but I will boast in Jesus Christ

His death and resurrection

Why should I gain from His reward

I cannot give an answer

but this I know with all my heart

His wounds have paid my ransom