From Psalm 31:3-4:  “You are indeed my rock and my fortress; for your name’s sake lead me and guide me, take me out of the net that is hidden for me, for you are my refuge.”

Crying out from devilish wasteland

Surrounded by desert’s empty sand

Caught, tangled in sin’s deceptive net

Buried under life’s heaviest debt

Captured by evil’s sly temptations

Confined to cellblock’s harsh reception

Engulfed by relentless guilt and shame

Throwing key away, dimming life’s flame

Praying to Holy Father above

Singing of His steadfast, faithful love

Seeking His mercy in valley’s distress

How will life move forward, from this mess?

Coming to life’s rescue, Jesus Christ

Accepting His grace, He pays full price

Breaking free from sin’s ongoing grip

Sailing on Spirit’s armored flagship

Exiting darkest, shame-filled prison

Beholding blood-stained Cross, He’s Risen!

Remaking character, with each day

Walking with Jesus, never shall stray

From Psalm 18:1-2:  “I love you, O Lord, my strength.  The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my rock in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”

Originally published February, 2021.