'...It is done...'

When I died and then arose Full of grace and of hope, I knew no fear and scant pain, I lost myself and there found gain. I loved the promise of the Ghost And blessed the Lord with all His host, When I died and gained Christ's life Full of salt and of light; I knew no boasts, nor what was vain, And shunned the spots, despising blame; I spoke of Hope and of Love, I cherished Wisdom and her Dove, When I died and left behind All sin's burdens and their strifes. I leapt for joy, and yearned to know, I wondered how this life would grow; I kept - Was kept and aligned, I walked - Was swept and refined. When I died - When still found stain - Wondering why, was oft' dismayed; Yet, believed, was moved - Much more, I found Christ's blood in bounty poured; And, knew no haven 'cept His throne, Crying,"You saved me, now I'm known!". When I died to 'I' and prayed, Full of Christ by hope of faith, I laid me down with sleepy sighs And 'rose with patience in the light. I set my heart upon His fame, So set my steps to holy trains, When I died and beheld the cross, Counting this gold, all else dross; I opened to the latter rain, I turned my savior not away, And held the mystery of His hope, Battling daily in this scope. Still I died by law to find Flesh and spirit in a bind; And,trembling, when defeated, swore, "Father forgive me yet once more!"; Then heard Christ wounded send the cry, "Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?"; Learning, sorrows are for the Righteous gain - Yes, so as the promise, so is the flame. Written December 4th, 2001 © on Dec 04 2001 02:59 AM PST   0 • 5