The Grateful Reprobate

The wooden cross was stained crimson red As the Man of Sorrows screeched and bled, The offender’s heart leaped with joy to know That scarlet sin had turned whiter than snow. He wondered what gift to offer such a one,- The Victor who had the age-old battle won And taken way the hopeless criminal’s fear And brought the doubter’s salvation near. How could he reward He who took his care And removed death’s ever nagging scare? How could he ever pay the Prince of Peace Who had granted his life an eternal lease? The guilt-laden outlaw given to the vilest vice Knew that even silver and gold won’t suffice To honor his selfless Savior’s lasting scar That availed the sinner’s hope once far.