I once was lost in sin, but now I know I'm found
Ain't got that habit licked, but at least I'm turned around
And I'm headed North, but my past still calls me from the South

I have been cut loose from the chains of death
My sin has been removed like the East is from the West
And I'm overwhelmed - my heart jumps out of my chest

I'm taken by surprise when I look back to where I once was
I am alive because I am loved

I was blind but now I see a life that's full of hope
It lies ahead of me, though I don't know where it goes
But there's a faith that will show me my way home

I have seen a light that shines out of the dark
Like that holy fire that was laid upon my heart
And it burns brighter than all the stars

I'm taken by surprise when I look back to where I once was
I am alive because I am loved

I once was a slave, but now I've been set free
From the bonds of hate - now love is all I need
Cause it overcomes, and that is what I want inside of me

I'm taken by surprise when I look back to where I once was
I am alive because I am loved