For a Season

Poetry 6

Over thirty years ago I began to write poetry. From time to time, usually between blog series, I will share one or two with you. Such is the case today. Nearly a decade ago, while preaching an expositional sermon series through I Peter, I was struck by the phrase for a season. After developing a sermon on that theme, I wrote this poem to end the message. Next week, a new blog series launches, but for today I offer you the following thoughts:

For a Season

I wept as I walked down the road

A paperboy trudging through rain

My heart was hurt 'neath the load

But I didn't see then the pain

          ...was only 'for a season.'

I wept as I walked down the road

A steelworker stumbling through snow

The bleak ice of winter's abode

A mirror of my cry of woe

          ...but 'twas only 'for a season.'

I wept as I stood by the crib

In that lonely hospital room

Her heart fluttered 'neath the rib

And close by death whispered doom

          ...but 'tis only 'for a season.'

I wept sitting there in my car

When I came to your house to pray

I know a bit 'bout the scar

On your heart, so I gently say

          ...it is only 'for a season.'

O my people, I lovingly plead

For your patience and faith in the Lord

You suffer heartaches indeed

Take the comfort this thought does afford

          ...'twill be only 'for a season.'

I promise your sorrow will end

A smile will return to your face

The tear in your heart He will mend

The wound with joy He'll replace

          ...because this is only 'for a season.'

And someday we'll all gather 'round

The Throne in eternity's day

This suffering life we'll lay down

The tears all wiped away

          ...and it won't just be 'for a season.'