restitution

There is no restitution for some things done wrong
but to lay them in disgrace
at the feet of Jesus

we crawl up out of muddied waters
with our hands scrambling for safety
and the taste of filth in our mouths

we flog ourselves with the world's opinion
and go down again, choking
gasping for air under the assault of accusing eyes

but there comes a time we realize
the deed is done
and we stand before Christ
mute with longing
helpless in our regret
broken in our sorrow

He draws us to himself
and showers us with radiance
Forgiven
Restored
He lifts each one to new and holy ground

There is no restitution for some things done wrong
but to leave them
abandoned
at the feet of Jesus

-Barbara Mitchell (from I Know You Lord © 1994 - used with permission)