The Gift

This gift came wrapped in friendship bright

And unexpected it was,
Both surprising and inviting,
Deeply heavy in empty arms.

Ne’er did I think He loved me so

To offer such extravagance,
Both to complement and challenge,
Invaluable in idle hands.

Opening took care and time

Avoiding damage old and new,
Both awareness and wonder dawning
Before unfocused, tearful eyes.

This honor came without condition

Although its purpose was clear,
Both to prove as well as answer
The call of an undeserving heart.

Teach Me

Teach me how to make your Spirit

Strong in me like wind,
Pushing over waves against the shore,
And make it shine as bright as day
Reflecting on the sea
That I might show your glory ever more.

Teach me where your words are hidden

Deep within my heart,
Rising to the surface in my need,
And let them fill my mind and mouth
‘Til nothing else remains,
That I might ever help to feed your sheep.

Lord, teach me how to rise above

The curse of what I feel,
Swelling to an upsurge in my tears,
And in that weakness you be strong
Inside me that I know
The touch of Love engulfing every fear.
 

Please teach me how to live this life

Gliding as on wings,
Searching out with confidence your face,
And soaring high above the world
To overcome with you,
I pray that I might dwell within your grace.

The Guard

I will let the guard stand down

If you will come near slowly,

Showing what you hold within your hand -

But I can’t take a shot

From the one I see as holy

Or I’d have to face the castles built of sand.

 

I would love to listen

If you dare to share your feelings,

Showing how the fragile play the game –

But I can not repay

The cost of your involvement

With this one who’s destined to be blamed.

 

I might extend an offer

In the giving of my trust,

Showing who will honor it the most –

But when the deal is broken

I’ll refuse to own the sadness,

Preferring not to ever come that close.