A Not So Random Snapshot

Eight years ago today I experienced something that most people will look at you like you're an alien from outer space if you mention - unless they too have experienced it, in which case there is a sense of instant brotherhood. I was Born Again, just like Jesus told an old Pharisee named Nicodemus he had to be before he could even see the Kingdom of God, much less enter into it.

Eight years out, what's it like? I think I'm like the kid on Christmas day who just opened the biggest present under the tree, and inside the box found the one thing he wanted more than anything else in the whole wide world but was so sure he would never get because it was just too expensive that he never told anyone that's what he really wanted. And yet . . . there it is in the box. Wonder. Joy. So much that it doesn't quite seem real.

I still haven't gotten over the wonder that Christ is really mine and that I am really his. I still have tears streaming down my face every time we sing in church about the fact that one day I will see him face to face. Me? After all the wretched things I've done? He loves me? He's not ashamed to call me family? Just as I am? This is the wonder of all wonders.

I will glory in my Redeemer
Whose priceless blood has ransomed me
Mine was the sin that drove the bitter nails
And hung Him on that judgment tree
I will glory in my Redeemer
Who crushed the power of sin and death
My only Savior before the Holy Judge
The Lamb Who is my righteousness
The Lamb Who is my righteousness

I will glory in my Redeemer
My life He bought, my love He owns
I have no longings for another
I’m satisfied in Him alone
I will glory in my Redeemer
His faithfulness my standing place
Though foes are mighty and rush upon me
My feet are firm, held by His grace
My feet are firm, held by His grace

I will glory in my Redeemer
Who carries me on eagle’s wings
He crowns my life with lovingkindness
His triumph song I’ll ever sing
I will glory in my Redeemer
Who waits for me at gates of gold
And when He calls me it will be paradise
His face forever to behold
His face forever to behold