A reflective poem

Justified I Stand 

Once again my heart confound, 

Didst Christ wear that blood-soaked crown, 

And upon his righteous life laid down, 

Was it I that was there found

To wear his righteous gown? 

Surely it is not I, 

By the law a wretch condemned to die! 

Yet with faith the gift of which I cry, 

“Not by works shall I try

to appease the God of earth and sky.” 

Within thy word is revealed

Once again that balm that healed, 

Upon my heart the layers peeled

Till once again my heart hath feeled, 

The justifying grace before concealed. 

Yes, guilty I before the Judge did stand, 

But God’s wrath for me on Christ did land, 

And from his Father the nail that pierced his hand

Has brought redemption through this Son of Man; 

Here now by faith in him, justified I stand.