The Accuser Ain't My Father

[Intro — lone harmonica, footsteps, B3 enters] [Bubba — Verse 1] There's a whisper in the midnight Dragging yesterday back home Says my worst mistake's my first name And I'm bound to walk alone But I can own the harm I've done And still believe there's grace for me I can make amends tomorrow Without wearing shame eternally [Darlene — Response] Hear that old accusing echo It don't speak the final word There's a sweeter voice of mercy For the broken to be heard [Duet — Chorus] The accuser ain't my Father And my shame ain't who I am I can turn around and make things right And reach for His outstretched hand When that old dark story calls me I don't have to answer there The accuser ain't my Father And there's mercy in His care [Bubba — Verse 2] I have judged my fellow traveler Then held a mirror full of blame Built a prison out of memory And called that prison by my name But forgiveness is a doorway And the truth can set us free I won't hide from what needs healing I won't let it bury me [Instrumental — harmonica trades with Darlene's tenor sax] [Darlene — Bridge] A conscience can remind you To repair what went astray But an endless song of condemnation Only steals the light of day [Duet — Final Chorus, congregation harmonies] The accuser ain't my Father And my shame ain't who I am I can turn around and make things right And reach for His outstretched hand When that old dark story calls me I don't have to answer there The accuser ain't my Father And there's mercy in His care [Bubba — Outro] The door is open, the porch light's on It's time to lay that burden down [Instrumental — resolved gospel ending]