He Loved Me First

Beloved,

I watched my mother weep
as I left the world behind.


I surrendered my life for you
An exchange made in love


I claim you as my own personal possession
Purchased with my blood.


I will seek you although you hide
My own special treasure I pursue


Apple of my eye,
Your name is on my palm

Come into the garden
I whisper secrets in your ear


There is nothing better than my will for you
For I make all things work together for your good.


I give you my strength and joy
The right side of my throne


Have the focus of my desire
My heart is yours to seek


Put my heart in yours and yours in mine,
One in Spirit, we intertwine



Receive my bounty for you
Lavish in my unfailing love




My King,


I claim you as my Savior
the one who gave His life


Your love has compelled me
To dedicate this new life


I lay my flesh before you
And my all my will alike


I leave my mother and father
And leave world behind


You captivate my eye
 I will search you out


Be the focus of my desire
I write your name on my heart


Meet me in my garden
My secret place is dark without you


Lavish in my adoration
I give it all for you to take




The story of repentance and judgement is not one of rules, regulation, guilt, control, pride, or power struggle. It is a love story. A voluntary exchange of self, life, sacrifice, and longing. It’s about loving correction and protection. God does not ask for anything more than what He is already offering to us.

Someone explained it to me like this. Imagine you were on death row, guilty of horrible crimes, and a stranger just came and took your punishment, so you could live. All he asks of you is to change your ways, say you are sorry and proclaim that he saved your life, and on top of that, he leaves instructions behind for you receive life and life more abundandly? Wouldn't you want to tell everyone who is on death row about it? Wouldn't you fall to your knees in thanks? Wouldn't you love him?