I could hear the water
On that summer day
When I washed my sins away.
While the preacher man
Led me by the hand
Into the creek behind our church,
He began to pray.

I could hear
His hopeful words
And the chirping birds.
The flowing peace
And serenity
Gave me hope
And a chance for piety.

The creek ran fast
With a tinkling song,
Righting a wrong,
Cooling my limbs,
And promising Heaven.
The crystal-clear current
Felt refreshing and strong.

I felt it caress my legs
And tug on my dress.
It helped me to confess
My sins to God.
While nature’s choir sang
All around me,
My sins felt less.

The preacher’s hand
Covered my face,
As my heart began to race.
He gently held me under
That cleansing, cool water
Drowned me in love
And promised a new state of grace.


© 2006 Dana Sieben

(photo courtesy of www.Higherpraise.com)