Grace Verse

(with thanks to Tim Kimmel for the inspiration and ending metaphor) The oft’ first thought when faced with grace Is that I must pick up the pace. His gift so grand, completely free: He must deserve a better me. So off I go, as yet to learn I can not gain what can’t be earned. At first my sins, both large and mild Seem odd since rescued from the wild. I’m not sure what to do or think I promise next time I won’t sink To depths or doubt or rebel call That echoes of my inbred fall. But I’m no good, if I’m my own. And grace seems like a con man’s loan. But that’s not grace, at least not all Of what was birthed the day He called. For grace, it saves and then sustains And never leaves though sometimes pains Me as I wander, wonder, seek, Abide and ask, “Why is it meek That I must be?” For I’ve got gifts And now their yours! (or so I wish) And far along that road I find That pride caused wand’ring from the vine. And what I thought was all-sold-out Instead created hurt and doubt. For grace is all, it’s on and on; It never ends once it’s begun. And so, still free it is, am I. I’m made to love Him, not to try To earn by being filled with grace More than the lesser ones who race. Help me not seek holy status Challenged to be best and brightest. Help me love you more than laud Of man, for I’ve a rad’cal God. And realize all of cross-bought ways Are first-class, full time gifts of grace. We’d all like grace to be a march; Just let us know, we’ll do our part. But that won’t faith or will enhance Grace is no march.  It is a dance.   – Tad C. Pruitt, MD