PEACE

Jesus, save me from mankind's opinions
Who walk in war, deceived--
That I might follow Jesus only
And of his perfect life receive.

My heart falls stunned and trembling
Before the mercy of my King,
Who regards my pain with gentleness,
And listens when I sing.

If no one understands such love--
If no one with this Way agrees--
Forgive them, Father, for the shadow
That seeks to swallow me.

Help me not to fear, this day,
As I walk in a darkened world--
Where terror ascends, to rule and reign:
Bitterness and hatred hurled.

Rather, shed in me your mighty love,
That unimaginable peace--
Your promised light and comfort--
Your Spirit here released.

Keep the gates of my mouth, oh God
That my lips may no more sin,
That my soul only serve righteousness--
That here, your love may live.

Forgive the frantic people
Who before Mammon's alter bow
Touch the divided minds of men
That they might know you, now.

And keep me low, dear Jesus
That I might serve your truth in love;
All glory for my Father
Who watches, from above.



--Abby Elizabeth Charland

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil; For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

                                                       --The words of Jesus Christ,
                                                       from the Gospel according to Mathew                                                                                    [Mathew 6:13]