In Plea to God

May, Lord, I not succumb to doubts and fears

But find Thee always in my need.  If trial

Bring cruel dashed hope with months of pain, if tears

Unbidden flow, with force—make, Lord, as mild

My cross as Thou wilt choose, with knowledge that

Thou only have.  I ask not softness, Lord,

For such would weaken gifts Thou gave which at

Thy feet someday I shall return.  That cord

Which binds our hearts as one is written in

The promise of Thy Son.  Recall he said,

“The Kingdom is within.”  Unless I wring

Thee out my heart by deeds ungodly led:

Stay by me, Lord, possess my all, enthrall

My ev’ry wish.  Then can I feel Thee call.

 

4/4/1973; revised 2023