Sonnet

I love when God, like Samuel of old, Awakens me in darkness from my bed, And from the sleeping world draws forth my soul With sudden grace...

Then hand and heart and spirit stand prepared To catch and drink each sound from Heaven's height, Each word that from the throne of God is shared, Each utterance descending through the night!

Beneath the needed note, the needed phrase, My hand writes firm what Heaven bids it write— And I sing out—and God Himself surveys The trembling guitar's chords of pure delight...

And through the open window, listening well, The moon hangs rapt, with radiance sublime... Thus is composed the sacred psalm and spell...

V.L.

You know, my brother, God knows no constraint! Beyond the ocean, greetings I now send. With all my heart myself I now can paint With joy—the day you came into this blend!

The meaning of your birth day came not late To my understanding, swift and clear: You've been a blessing to my mortal fate, A steadfast anchor, brother ever dear!

Through you Christ Jesus I now understand, Who dwells reflected in your very soul, And I in rapture pray on every hand, Thanking the Lord that you make whole my whole!

Another year has clicked away its time... Let it click on—that is its destined part. I pray to Christ to guard you at your prime, And keep you young forever in your heart!