Welcome in Heaven

[Verse 1]
They shipped me out at twenty
Said, "Son, you're standing tall"
Gave me a flag, a rifle
Said, "Answer when duty calls"
I tried to be a good man
Did everything they said
But some nights in the darkness
I still see every face
[Chorus]
Am I still welcome in heaven
With these stains on my hands
If I was just doing what they told me
Will You still let me stand
I was fighting for my country
For my kids, for my old man
But am I still welcome in heaven
If I can't forgive myself yet
[Verse 2]
They pinned that little medal
Mama cried there in the pew
Preacher said he was proud of me
But he didn't see what I knew
'Cause there ain't any speeches
Out there on the other side
Just a boy from some small village
Who won't go home tonight
[Chorus]
Am I still welcome in heaven
With these stains on my hands
If I was just doing what they told me
Will You still let me stand
I was fighting for my country
For my kids, for my old man
But am I still welcome in heaven
If I can't forgive myself yet
[Bridge]
If You were standing in that doorway
Would You look me in the eye
Would You call me home, or turn away
From every time I crossed that line
I don't need streets of glory
Just a place to lay this shame
And hear You whisper softly
"I still know your name"
[Chorus]
Am I still welcome in heaven
With these stains on my hands
If I was just doing what they told me
Will You still let me stand
I was fighting for my family
Doing what I thought was best
Lord, if Your arms are still open
Teach my heart to rest
[Outro]
They sent me home a hero
But only You know what I’ve done
If there’s mercy for a soldier
Save a little for Your son

country, Slow, emotional country ballad with male vocals; brushed snare, soft fingerpicked acoustic guitar, subtle pedal steel swells. Verses stay intimate and low, like a confession on a front porch at night; chorus opens with warmer harmonies and a gentle organ pad. Final chorus lifts slightly then drops back to a near-whispered outro, leaving space for breath and reflection., emotional