An Incredible Poem!

On Good Friday, John B. marched out of Newton Prison on his way to freedom and family in the Quad Cities.  Before he left he shared this incredible poem with us during the Holy Week service in the prison gym.  Enjoy!

My Commitment as a Christian    
Submitted by: John B.

I am part of the fellowship of the unashamed,

I have stepped over the line

The decision has been made,

I am a disciple of Jesus Christ.

I will not look back, let up, slow down, or be stilled.

My past is redeemed,

My present makes sense,

And my future is secure.

I am finished and done with low living,

Sight walking, small planning, smooth knees,

Colorless dreams, tamed visions, mundane talking,

Cheap living, and small goals.

I no longer need preeminence, prosperity, position,

Promotions, plaudits, or popularity.

I do not have to be right, first, on top,

Recognized, praised, regarded or rewarded.

I now live by faith, lean on His presence,

Walk by patience, lift by prayer, and labor by power.

My face is set, my goal is heaven,

My road is narrow. my way is rough,

My companions few, my guide reliable,

And my mission clear.

I cannot be bought, deluded, or delayed.

I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice,

Hesitate in the presence of adversary,

Negotiate at the table of the enemy,

Or meander in the maze of mediocrity.

I will not give up, shut up, or let up

Until I have stayed up, stored up,

Paid up, and preached up for the cause of Christ.

I am a disciple of Jesus.

I must go until he comes,

Give until I drop,

Preach until all know Him,

And work until He stops me.

And when He comes for his own,

He will have no problem recognizing me

For my banner will clear!