Page:Poems Jordan.djvu/113

GOD'S SERVANTS

Though sharp and cruel be the raven's beak,
 Yet once 'twas used in service for our God;
So it may be, in harsh words others speak,
 They bring to us our soul's most-needed food.

Though black as ebony the raven's wing,
 Blotting the sunlight to the prophet's eye,
Yet it was this which did so swiftly bring,
 Direct from God, his daily needs' supply!

And does it sometimes seem monotonous
 Each day some trial new, must bring?
The rather think, "God's servant cometh thus
 With bread and flesh, for my souls nourishing!"

'Tis true that disappointments strange may come
 Swooping tow'rd our isolated lives,—
But oh, 'tis that they may enlarge the room
 For His dear Presence, and the all it gives!

Then let us not the message lose because
 In sable robes is clad the messenger;
Though God (with black-gloved hand), doth bid us pause
 To introduce us to the Comforter!

If sent of God, no creature has the pow'r
 To harm,—e'en though it may be vulturous;
So, troubles which would, otherwise, devour,
 But minister God's very self to us!

The ravens plucked not out the prophet's eyes,—
 So trials fierce cannot destroy my faith;
No God-sent servant my soul terrifies,
 Through them I listen for the words He saith!

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