The Accordion

I shall unfold the bellows this day, And praise the Lord in verses bright. He freed me from my sins' dark way With pierced hands upon the cross's height.

Upon a rock He set me firm, Shielded from all filth and ash, And of this grace my accordion learns To tell in melodies that gently wash.

Now fortune smiles beyond all measure, Life with Christ holds greater worth! And I have joined that blessed treasure— Those who sing God's praise on earth!

I study Eternity's Law, They say: "He grinds the granite stone"… But when the evening falls with awe, My accordion pours forth its tone.

God Accepts

Evening… Frost… A rosy glow… I bow myself before His throne, God accepts the drunk below, He welcomed those of flesh who've known.

He made the South and North to stand, The beasts and birds at His command, God turns the weeds by His own hand To sheaves and harvests of the land!

Once He from fire's fury saved Lot from the flames' consuming rage, From swamps of drink in which I craved— He drew me forth from that dark stage!

This is no fable, understand! God loves the good and wicked too… You fill your eyes with tears so grand— God opens His to shine on you!

He turns the grief of humble face To joy beyond all earthly price, And sweetly falls upon my grace To bow before Him, sacrifice.