Against the Current

How often do we speak of God's command, Yet live our lives in ways that He forbids. We suffer from the weight that on us rests, And long each day to change what we have planned.

But currents sweep us ever down their course. And if we do not grip the oars with might, Our little boat will splinter at the sight Of waters plunging down with fearsome force.

To row against the current of our age, Against the current of the world and church, Is laboring and difficult research To set God's Word aflame on life's stage.

That every stroke of oars will thrust us past The fashions and the tempter's way of old, Toward that Holy Presence, toward the gold Of freedom that the Lord to us has cast.

That all our lives with God in perfect tune May blend as one great beating of the heart, We must row upward through each destined part, Though laughter echoes all around and soon.

And from the shore they cry: "Come back! Turn round!" And friends float downward on the easy stream. Don't look behind them filled with guilty shame, But grip the oars more tightly—hear the sound!

Though this great task may burden and exhaust, Though sometimes you may row with weary strain, Yet every meter toward your destined gain Will fill your life with deeds Christ paid the cost.