Ensnared by death's cords, overcome,
I wrestled, pierced with sorrow's spears,
And though I wept, I sought, and found
A One who answers prayers of tears.

For when I called, I met his grace,
And when I trusted, found him true.
My feet set in a spacious place,
My soul, God has been good to you.

But when I first stretched out my hand,
Tests of affliction searched my soul,
Contested every step towards him,
All skies were storms, and no man bold.

But how can I repay the Lord,
And match his gifts, who touched the blind?
I will repay my promised word,
And seek his name, hold fast his hand.

Even death is precious, though I die,
Each death gives more obedience.
Link upon link behind me lies,
Each sin-cord cut, by sorrow sent.

And now I sacrifice with thanks
For what I had complaint before:
Grief's messengers, rank upon rank
Attend with grace heaven's open door.

Oh Lord, the cup you gave, refill,
And raise my sail to every wind.
My heart now claim for heaven's will,
As open towards Jerusalem.

God bless you,
Lee

The fire must be kept burning on the altar 
continuously: it must not go out " (Lev. 6:13) 

Thy kindled fire, Thy Spirit's flame, 
The first dawn of God's presence near; 
The Sun of Righteousness ascends 
Within our hearts, His sacred stair, 
Faith's incense of uplifted prayer. 

Our hands outstretched, earth's lamp lit stars 
Shine through the dark-veiled temple door, 
Like ancient lamps that burned afar, 
Thy ageless flame has kindled near 
Within our hearts, before the Lord.

Oh righteous One, your laws are true, 
And holy your commands. 
They stand, a sacred temple built 
Of rock and not of sand. 

My soul wears out from seeking 
What your enemies despise. 
Your promises are perfect, 
Flawless, precious in my eyes. 

Though foes have compassed me about 
To crush me to the floor, 
I seek your wisdom and your law 
And ask for nothing more. 

Your statues are forever 
And their righteousness endures. 
My heart, athirst, partakes of life 
Through insight deep and pure. 
(Based on Psalm 119:137-144) 
God bless you, 
Lee