in depth look at poem: I wrote this one while at the same conference at the Phillipines. It was about the same experience at the altar.


I met God at the altar

I met God at the altar
He was there with His arms around my neck.
like an old friend coming to lead me on.
He reminded me of who I am in Him
and what He'll do through me.
He took away everything, and gave me more.
He gave me life again.

I met God at the altar
I was down on my knees worshipping Him,
giving Him the glory due His name.
He bent down, took me by the hand
and said 'come be my son, come be my friend'
He told me He'd be here when I need Him.
He gave me life again.

Jesus met me where I was.
deep in the muck and mire of this world,
deep in sin and rebellion.
He reminded me that I'm clean in His eyes
and that I don't have to worry what others think.
He took away everything and gave me more.
He gave me life again.

Jesus met me where I was.
alone, lonely, and on my way to hell.
deep in the pain and emptiness.
He bent down, took me by the hand
and said 'come be my son, come be my friend.'
He healed the inner sickness I was dying of.
He gave me life again.

-Jonathan Johnston


© Copyright 1997 Jonathan E. Johnston


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