The Poetry Corner

In Sincerity

By Nancy Rebecca Campbell Glass

Grace be with them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Ephesians 6:24. Thou saddened one whose longing eyes Seek quickening thoughts to glean, Whose views of Christ, the Heavenly prize, Clouds often veer between, That rapture which may be expressed By others constantly Is not thine own; in truth confessed, Where is the mystery? Ask now these questions of thy soul: My heart, is it sincere? Do I his holy name extol, And is He truly dear? Like Peter can I, too, record And urge his earnest plea, "Thou knowest all things, gracious Lord; Thou knowest I love Thee"? There is no music like his voice: To this can'st thou attest? No message makes thee so rejoice As "Come to me and rest"? If there's been left within thine heart By word or deed a thorn, Can prayer extract the cruel dart And heal it ere the morn? Does prayer cast out disquietude And every bitter thought; All hate and enmity exclude By Love with patience fraught? Or, if perchance there may be found A hurt that festers still, Is this the balm that soothes the wound "'Twas needed; 'tis God's will"? Is there a saint, however poor, However lowly born, That earthly treasure could allure Thee to mistreat or scorn? These queries, are they answered well? Then press with joy toward Heaven, Filled with that peace tongue cannot tell, The sense of sin forgiven. Accept your Saviour's proffered rest! Behold! there's grace for thee; All those who love Him now are blest, Love in sincerity.