open hearts and open doors

This is a new song by Casting Crowns. One of the writers of the song said, "I believe the world knows what we as Christians are against, but I'm not sure they know what we are for." The lyrics are powerful and convicting. I've italicized the lines that have really stirred my heart. I hope the message of the song speaks to you, too.


                                Jesus, Friend of Sinners

Jesus friend of sinners we have strayed so far away
We cut down people in your name but the sword
was never ours to swing
Jesus friend of sinners the truth's become so hard to see
The world is on their way to You but they're tripping over me
Always looking around but never looking up I'm so double minded
A plank eyed saint with dirty hands and a heart divided

Oh Jesus friend of sinners
Open our eyes to the world at the end of our pointing fingers
Let our hearts be led by mercy
Help us reach with open hearts and open doors
Oh Jesus friend of sinners break our hearts for what breaks yours

Jesus friend of sinners the one who's writing in the sand
Make the righteous turn away and the stones fall from their hands
Help us to remember we are all the least of these
Let the memory of Your mercy bring your people to their knees

Nobody knows what we're for only what we're against
 when we judge the wounded
What if we put down our signs crossed over the lines
 and love like You did

You love every lost cause; you reach for the outcast
For the leper and the lame; they're the reason that You came
Lord I was that lost cause and I was the outcast
But you died for sinners just like me a grateful leper at Your feet

Oh Jesus friend of sinners
Open our eyes to the world at the end of our pointing fingers
Let our hearts be led by mercy
Help us reach with open hearts and open doors
Oh Jesus friend of sinners break our hearts for what breaks yours


Amen, Amen, and Amen!