at the gates

I show up at your gates dirty, my body as unclean as my soul. I approach with head down and feet dragging through the dust, knowing there's no way a sinner like me would be welcomed into the heavenly kingdom.

you receive me in front of the gates, and lift my chin so your merciful eyes meet mine.

"I can see in your spirit that your journey has been long," you say with the most gentleness that has ever reached my ears.

with a kind smile you bend down and begin to wash my feet, an act I know I am unworthy of receiving.

my tears begin to fall on the hands that are washing me clean, and you fix your gaze on my face. I feel the grace in your eyes run through my veins, a wave of redemption cleansing my soul.

you rise and take me in your arms. "I love you," you say. "I have always loved you."

you take my hand in yours and escort me into the beautiful city.

"welcome home."