This last weekend saw the passing of Kris Kristofferson, a prolific country western superstar. He was a solo artist and also sang with the Highwaymen (Willie, Waylon, and Cash). He was at home in Hawaii with his family. He was 88 years old and was born in Brownwood, Texas.
One particular song came to mind when I heard of his passing "Why Me Lord?". Its a heartfelt ballad he wrote right after his salvation experience.
He was taken by a friend to Jimmy Snow's church, a place he rarely went. However, during the service Pastor Snow asked the congregation if anybody was there who knew they were lost and without Jesus in their life.
Several hands went up and eventually a very reluctant Kristofferson's hand was among them. Pastor Snow ask those with their hands up to come forward and he found himself heading to the altar. Kristofferson wasn't clear on the words said to him by Pastor Snow but he realized the sensation of forgiveness in his heart when he responded and gave his life to Jesus. Words don't matter as much as sensing the God was doing something in his life. He was experiencing forgiveness.
Soon afterwards he penned the song "Why me Lord?"
why me lord? what have i ever done, to deserve even one, of the pleasure i've known, tell me lord, what did i ever do, that was worth lovin' you, for the kindness you've shown, chorus:
lord help me Jesus, i've wasted it so help me Jesus, i know what i am, but now that i know, that i needed you so help me Jesus, my souls in your hand, verse
2:try me lord, if you think there's a way, i can try to repay, all i've takin' from you, maybe lord, I can show someone else, what i've been through myself, on my way back to you, chorus Jesus, my soul's in your hands
Written in 1973, this song has lead many repentant sinners to the cross. Many versions are on You tube God bless his family and give them comfort in their grief.
May we like Kris's friend invite others to church knowing that it can be their eternal destiny in balance.
pb
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