“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God . . .” – Ephesians 2:8
“Why Me Lord?” a song you may recall written and recorded by country singer Kris Kristoferson was quite a hit several of years ago. The lyrics start off like this: “Why me Lord? / What have I ever done / to deserve even one / of the pleasures I’ve known. / Tell me Lord / What did I ever do / that was worth lovin’ you / for the kindness you’ve shown.” That thought has crossed my mind a lot this past week.
You see, we lived in Houston once upon a time. It was thirty years ago and we were only there a couple of years. But things could have turned out different, we could have stayed. And what if we had? Would we be displaced like thousands of others along the Texas coast, our home destroyed by the devastating flood waters, losing everything we owned? Why was my family spared while thousands — millions probably — of our neighbors to the south are left to suffer? Why me Lord?
“Your tests all look great,” the doctor informed me this past week. “You’re in great shape,” she continued, “unlike all the other patients I’ve seen today.” Being her last patient that day caused me to wonder how many others were ahead of me who were not so lucky? Why am I blessed with good health, and they are not? Why me Lord?
As we celebrate our wedding anniversary this weekend I’ve been taking stock of things, reflecting on my life. September 4, 1971, forty-six years ago, I thought was the best day of my life — that is, until I began to realize that was just the beginning, that every day since has been even better. I happen to be married to the most incredible woman, with whom together we raised two fine sons, who along with their amazing wives have gifted us with five beautiful granddaughters. How is it I have been so blessed with such a wonderful family? Why me Lord?
There’s just one answer, of course, and it is not my doing. It can only be the gift of God’s amazing grace. So, as Kristoferson’s song concludes, “Try me Lord / if you think there’s a way / I can try to repay / all I’ve taken from you. / Maybe Lord / I can show someone else / what I’ve been through myself / on my way back to you.” Amen!