Sounds of War

We hear the sounds of war

and the cries for peace;

We hear of destruction done

in the name of peace;

We hear of rallies done

for peace,

and for war.

Let us keep listening

to the messages

from a world at war;

from a world calling for peace.

Let us keep listening

to the still small voice

of a loving God,

a peaceful God;

A God who is with us,

both now and always.

(BJL-January, 1991)

This poem was written six months after my father passed away, and just a few short weeks after my brother was sent to Saudi Arabia during the Gulf War and what was subsequently called “Desert Storm.”  Our lives are full of war, whether one such as “Desert Storm” or the wars within ourselves.  Yet, God IS always with us – though it is sometimes hard to see Him.  May our God surround His people in whatever war they are in the midst of, and give them strength and courage to handle their wars inside.