Thus...Joy

Luke 18:1

Then Jesus told them a parable about their need to pray at all times 

and not lose heart:

Rock of Ages-Chris Rice

What weight of woe could crush my heart

The cross of creature care

(Where oft love groans beneath the smart

Of faith’s ongoing prayer)

Would be too heavy to endure

Without the joy of He

Who died my pardon to secure

And set my doomed soul free

Thus, I will keep on singing through my tears of joy and grief

While I cry ‘Jesus, I believe, Help thou mine unbelief

…Or else discouragement’s despair

Would hopelessly succeed

And I would find no solace where

Both joy and sorrow bleed

But for the One who calms the storm

According to His will

And tunes me to love’s cruciform

And whispers ‘peace, be still’

Thus, I will keep on praying through my tears of want and need

While I cry, Jesus, hold me closer, while You intercede

…or else the dark of fear and dread

Could never be subdued

No eagle wings of hope to spread

As faith’s strength is renewed

But, because I believe, you pull

Doubt’s blinders from faith’s eyes

With joy unspeakable and full

Of glory’s tear-stained prize

Thus, I will keep on trusting, even though heart-cries increase

While I cry, Jesus, help me, you reply with perfect peace

© Janet Martin

Isa.40:31

But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength; 

They shall mount up with wings like eagles, 

They shall run and not be weary, 

They shall walk and not faint.