Ephesians 2

There was a time, Father, when I was without Christ. I was so selfish and foul. I was dead in sin and trespasses; in bondage to the world’s idea of pleasure.

Thank you, Father, that because of your great love and mercy, you chose me for redemption, and you made me alive together with Christ. By your grace, you gave me the gift of faith, and I believe in Jesus as your Christ and my savior.

You opened my eyes, and I saw my nasty self, and it brought me to shame and then repentance. With joy, I received your gift of salvation by faith.

You raised me up together and seated me in the heavenly, perfect, complete Christ. He has atoned for my sins, and I am forgiven in him and cleansed of all my unrighteousness.

I don’t deserve that mercy. I sure did not earn it, but you, Father, make it clear that it is your gift to me, paid for by Christ Jesus on the cross. In humility and boundless joy, I received the gift of righteousness and now dwell in it, in him, forever.