This is another poem based upon Psalm 126 which is a Song of Ascent.

If it’s helpful, you may listen to me read the poem via the player below.

Our strength is not in “being upbeat”.
Is not our performance record
It’s not our popularity, being greeted on the street
We are not our own, we aren’t our own lord.

Our strength is not our authenticity
Nor our capable application
Not in being efficient, exemplars of productivity.
We stand on a firmer foundation.

We are not strong because we know
Whats to know, posses sophistry’s acumen
We are the tearful who in weeping sow
Who know what it means to be fully human.

Our strength is not in the people like us,
Who like us or who like to fight
We don’t fight to win, to be self-righteous
We fight, to be sincere, walk humbly, upright.

Our strength is not that our families are better
That our marriages and children are enviable
Meeting expectations right down to the letter
Never experiencing any trouble.

Our confidence is not because our pantries are well-stocked
Because our 401Ks are properly diversified
Our hope is not that our comfort in retirement
Will allow shell-seeking at some sunny seaside.

The joy of the Lord, His joy is our strength!
Even so Lord, restore our fortunes!
Make us fruitful! Give us faith to go to any length
Be our sole solace. Be our living portion.

© Randall Edwards 2017
This poem is for Christ’s church. If it is helpful, please feel free to copy or reprint in church bulletins, read aloud, or repost. I only ask that an attribution be cited to myself (Randall Edwards) and this blog (backwardmutters.com). Thanks.
artwork: detail from an illustration of The Pilgrim’s Progress or Christian’s journey form the City of Destruction in this evil World to the Celestial City; Published July 1, 1813 by J. Pitts No 14 Great St Andrews Street Seven Dials.