You Are Welcome

You are Welcome

By Michael Orr

You are welcome, He said, as I dusted my shirt, for the filth of my past had glossed over my hurt,

In my shame and my pride I refused to come in, lest He see my repulsiveness buried in sin.

You are welcome, He said, as I stubbornly stood, for my many transgressions outnumbered the good,

I’d never be perfect so why even try since the shame of my struggle would last ‘til I die?

You are welcome, He said, as I shook my head fast, for whatever He offered was too good to last,

He’d tell me to leave when I proved undeserving or let down the people I’m called to be serving.

You are welcome, He said, as I tried to retort, but excuses I offered Him always fell short,

He met my resistance with gentle correction, dismissing and answering every objection.

You are welcome, He said, and I finally accepted, came into His presence and wasn’t rejected,

No shame, no revulsion came into his voice, but only acceptance in making my choice.

You are welcome, for I have removed all your guilt, since shame cannot last in this house I have built,

You’re welcome to stay for eternity new, for my home was created for people like you.

I am welcome, I know, for as long as I stay, I am covered by grace when I follow His Way,

Surrounded in glory, no more will I roam, for I’ll always be welcome, when I make Him my home.