Poetry

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I

In this barren wilderness
I call my soul,
my heart is as brittle
as the sun-scorched grass of August;
I wander hopelessly,
looking for any sign of life
in the endless sands
of doubt and despair.
Foolishly I have followed mirages
that promise so much
and offer so little.
In the distance I see it,
a banner waving proudly in the wind.
Unlike the colorless, wavering mirages,
it stands magnificent,
its colors resounding across the desert.
Somehow, I find the strength
to move toward it.
A tent is laid out
beneath the cool shelter of trees.
Jesus, the living water
waits for me.

II

See God’s banner!
It waves on high
calling all to arms!
The battle cry goes out,
God calls to us:
“The time for action is now!
Stop your warring and killing;
your fight is not against each other,
but against hatred, fear,
greed, and intolerance.
March around the walls of injustice!
Tear down the walls of prejudice!
Sound the trumpet of redemption!
Love those who hate you,
bless those who ridicule you,
pray for those who persecute you.
I have shown the way;
I raise my banner high
to guide and lead you!”

III

Lord, You lift Your banner of love over me,
a sign of Your love and protection,
goodness and provision.
You love me
as no one else can or ever will.
How foolishly I wander
from under Your banner,
away from Your loving arms,
seeking out false lovers,
empty promises.
I turn away from Your call
to serve You,
to be a standard of peace and hope.
Yet, You never take Your banner away;
you continue to keep it raised high,
waiting for my return.

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