The power of forgiveness is stronger than anything, but is a real challenge to give. David Smith's outstanding production has given a Steven Curtis Chapman feel to it. Enjoy! And be challenged!

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Toby Keith really motivated this song. I felt that his "Angry American" song was very misleading about how God would want Americans to respond. But I also wanted to write it in such a way that even most people who are pro-Iraq War would be moved by it. So, when I heard a story by Fr. John Dear, who was in NYC on 9/11 and counseling victims' family members, I knew I had to write a song about the story he told. He said a mother of a young man killed in the WTC told him, "You know, I am so filled with sadness right now that I have no room to be hating anyone." Obviously I changed a few of the details about her story a little bit, but I think I remained true to her sentiments. And people keep telling me that it works!

9/11, one year later
A news guy stuck a mic in her face, and tried to bait her
She lost her son when the towers fell
This ceremony opened deep wounds, you could tell
And when he asked her if she wished Bin Laden dead
I knew I’d seen a saint on TV when she said:

I’ve got no room for hate
No room in my heart for hate
I’ve got scars
I’ve got sadness
But if you don’t make room for forgiveness
It will eat you up inside
So in my heart and soul I’ve made (last time: I’ll make)
No room for hate

The cameraman took one step back
I saw a button of her son’s face and a cross around her neck
Then like a movie inside my mind
Appeared the One who has forgiven me a million times
I saw the sweat and blood run down his face again
He could barely breathe, but said, “Father, forgive them…

Chorus

So if this mother
And this Savior
Can still show mercy after all they’ve been through,
Then surely I
Have no reason why
I can’t trade my petty grudges for a love that is true

God, help me make…

Chorus