William Kirkpatrick penned these words long ago, but they still resonate. “I’ve wandered far away from God, Now I’m coming home; the paths of sin too long I’ve trod, Lord, I’m coming home. I’ve wasted many precious years, now I’m coming home; I now repent with bitter tears; Lord, I’m coming home.” “Open wide your arms of love, Lord, I’m coming home.” These words are similar to those of the psalmist found in Psalm 107. He pictured people of his day agonizing over their emotional condition because they had wandered away from God and were now crying out to him. He wrote, “They rebelled and suffered for their sins. They couldn’t stand the thought of food, and they were knocking on death’s door. ‘Lord, help!’ they cried in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. He sent out his word and healed them, snatching them from the door of death. Let them praise the LORD for his great love and for the wonderful things he has done for them.” It is still true today, that despite whatever we have done in violation of God’s moral laws, He is still ready to forgive us—if we only admit it, repent of our folly, and acknowledge His Son as our Savior and Lord.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
