You Washed Away the Dirt

Lord, from You flows true and continual kindness.

You had cast us off and justly so,
but in Your mercy You forgave us.

You were at odds with us,
and You reconciled us.

You had set a curse on us,
and You blessed us.

You had banished us from the garden,
and You called us back again.

You took away the fig leaves
that had been an unsuitable garment,
and You clothed us in a cloak of great value.

You flung wide the prison gates,
and You gave the condemned a pardon.

You sprinkled clean water on us,
and You washed away the dirt.

    - Gregory of Nyssa, 335-395 AD

Hat Tip: Everyday Theology and Kingdom People