How Many Times

The candles of Remembrance lit,
The Cup of Redemption filled,
In Memory, drink all of it,
For Eternity, Unspilled.

How Many Times
By Arley Steinhour 012013
Dedicated to friend and brother Gary Olson

The day, outside, is crisp and clean,
Gentle breeze through leafless tree,
Still some taste of white winter sheen,
Inside my home, comfy-warm for me.

Once again, I praise and thank You,
For all you are, to and for, who I be,
Your Love fills, through and through,
Promotes a glow, that all can see.

They do not see the storm, inside,
What they see is what you give me,
My sin-river, still runs deep and wide,
But for your restraint, run free.

You took me by the hand, many years ago,
Undemanding, kept your light shining bright,
Passing me through Death's valley, so slow,
Bruised and scarred, unclaimed by Dark of Night.

So many times, I was 'Third time down,'
You pulled me, safely, from troubled water,
Your embrace, secure, on lips, no frown,
You carried my bulk, as if an injured daughter.

How many times, I've lost the count,
Some scars remain, to tell a story,
Together, create a thanksgiving fount,
My existence blessed, To You, the Glory.

You're coming soon, when Time is right,
To Snatch anxious Bride away,
Lamp, full of oil, to function day or night,
We're off to Wedding Feast, Ol'e!

and AMEN