Will The lanterns Be Lit?

In the darkest hour of the valley;
when the evils have slithered into their
place – and the righteous cry for help –
and seek You, Lord – will the lanterns be lit?

In the hours of groaning and unrest;
when all that is good has seemed to
fail – will the lanterns be lit?

When the silence is the loudest; and
the tears sound of rushing waterfalls –
will the lanterns be lit?

When all seem to have turned their
face against You – convinced
that You have forgotten us; Your people –
will the lanterns be lit?

When sweet memories feel long past –
and the blessing of moments give way
to what feels like a curse –
will the lanterns be lit?

When what was once innocent, unblemished;
and unsoiled – has become stained and
worn and used; will the lanterns be lit?

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When it seems there is nothing left
to do; and nowhere left to go –
will the lanterns be lit?

When good news and perspective seems
to fade – when the light of our journey
begins to dim – will the lanterns be lit?

When love feels defeated or forgotten;
when memories and pictures are the only
thing that bring life – will the lanterns be
lit?

When the end has drawn so near; and
the pitter patter of little feet have give way
to empty halls – somewhere else they laugh
and dine; will the lanterns be lit?

When this body gives way to time’s
appetite unyielding – and I breathe my last
in hope; will the lanterns be lit?

As the Paul’s bear me across the field-
and lower me into my resting place – will those
I leave behind know the lanterns lit?

When all is gone – all my life’s work is
left behind for the next generation to uphold –
may it light the lanterns of a thousand more.