We Weep But Not

We weep but not like pagans weep:
   the doleful sorrows and mournful cries.
We weep but not like those sans hope:
   the empty pit within a thousand sighs.
No, our sorrow is a tempered sorrow,
   buoyed up by hope of endless shores.
Our sadness pauses to look up
   and catch a glimpse of Heaven's door.
And at that door all earthy sorrows will flee
   with but a single look at Jesus' face!
There thousands join in joyful song,
   where soon we'll be by grace!


~D. Benning

1 Thes. 4:13

Thoughts

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

Phil. 4:8 - 9

The world is closing in around me, press-
    ing out all thoughts of God, and leaving me
    With hate.  The world is going crazy: see
The raging vengeance—all around the ugliness!
They rush around with forkéd tongues—speak "Yes"
    But mean "No"; look not but at one's Pedigree,
    And selfishly give to charity:
All so that they might further their success!

    But how?  Success to what, dear God and Lord?
        For theirs is but a fleeting joy of ease;
        For You have promised to give all my needs
    According to Your wealth, as in Your Word.

            So whatsoever things are lovely, just, and true,
            Think on them and the God of Peace shall be with you.

 - D. Benning


This poem from 1982 was written as a poetic expression of the fourth chapter of Philippians: "Christ our Adequacy."  Especially incorporating verses 19 and 8 - 9.