Weep Not at Nain

Cold and still and lifeless ill lying
On the bier. So strange to see the boy
Whose jest and winsome dreams once en-joyed
The heart of an old mother, now ill, crying.

The whole town and bridge club, beauty shop, baking crew and ladies’ guild
Were shocked at this injustice: how could God
Be cruel if He were so mighty: isn’t it odd
That goodness gets harder once youth is stilled.

They all came out to weep at the gates of Nain
With their widow friend, joyless, boyless, bereft
Of welfare, without food and clothing and shelter left:
But ask her, if you dare: she cares only for ancient pain.

Ancient pain at the city of Nain and everywhere:
For some, like this, the shame is especially clear
When the poor and the halt are more burdened with tears;
But death for the unburdened is more than even they can bear.

The Son of Man came to Nain for the pall-bearing
Of all the biers of man, every procession
He stills with the God-breath of compassion:
“Weep not,” Nain heard the Voice of the Ages, merely caring.

Young man from your coffin do quickly arise
And take your old mother dearly home.
Tell her you’re fine from the Master of Time, the Stone
Rolled away, He'll dry every tear from her eyes.

Comments

[gsk]

Is this yours? Lovely!