The Melodious

I wrote this piece back in 2005 and am now publishing it here. Maybe you can relate with being unwilling, unable or not ready to receive and accept His gift. I read this again tonight and I feel inspired to read it aloud instead of doing a special song tomorrow. I could not believe how it ministered to me, I must yet struggle with receiving fully.

Open Hands
By Mike Palmer, 2005

I stand before you Lord

With guilt and shame and tears

Chains about me and dark clouds above my head

I know of Your mercy

I know of Your love

But I have yet to call, to ask and to receive

I hear You calling my name

But I seek a secret, hidden place from You

Even in my broken state I do not come

You know my weakness

You know my need

But You would not pry open my hands

Reckless and hopeless

Suffering and striving, alone and afraid

You have pity on me like a father; extending mercy at my darkest time

You sent Jesus in my place

The guiltless One paid my ransom,

He took my chains and my death, so I could be free

What could be more real than this?

A gift so undeserved!

Boundless love and grace

I am ready to open my hands; to be forgiven

I accept Your awesome gift

Here are my open hands