Ode to a Friend #2-Thirsty

If when all around you the sky is not just cloudy, 

but the darkness looms in the day

 and you look up to the heavens seeing the glory of God......  

If when you can stand in the pouring rain with the wind whipping your hair,

 and tearing at your clothes 

and yet you see the majesty of God.......

If when the noon day heat has caused you to stumble, 

and lose your footing, 

when your mouth is parched 

and your tongue feels so desperate for water, 

and yet you praise Him who is the living water.......  

If when the night has surrounded you so entirely 

that it seems your eyes are only accustomed to the blackness, 

and yet you see His light,

 and in that light you rejoice with all your heart........

If your friends have all turned against you

 throwing stones instead of flowers,

 causing them to be enemies that drive you to your knees, 

and you look up to see the only  friend that will never, ever forsake you.......

 

If when your goals, plans, and gifts are no longer needed, 

and you are seemingly insignificant 

not useful except for the most menial of tasks, 

and you thank Him who said to do all for the glory of God......

 

If when those you love the most no longer give you the time of day, 

 nor care lovingly for you, 

but you continue to give them water to drink, 

love to take, 

and shelter when their storms are surrounding them, 

and you worship Him who suffered,

 bled,

 and died a shameful death, 

all for you.  

Then you will be content

 as a child resting, 

 with the joy of knowing 

that you belong to Him.

Lynn Cross