The Cleft of Love

O Lord,

          again I sit here with my Love

As dead as dirt—my senses numbed by hurt

Of my very own devisings that were

From selfish whims—not from up Above.

My soul is dry and parched, is empty deep

Within.  I looked up and I thought You faded—

That You were gone: of this I was persuaded,

With nothing left in life, I’d lay me down to sleep.

But You have not dimmed nor have You left;

So pull away the sullen clouds that hide

Me in the empty night of sin where cry

I to You to bring me to that Safe Cleft:

Where anointing me with Your Grace and Righteousness,

You breathe into my dust Your Love and Loveliness!

- D. Benning