Far Too Long

It’s been far too long since we’ve talked 
Since grandkids came and books were read
Since dogs and cats and our goose 
Chased our children in the yard 
And frogs sang ‘neath the house 

Since children played long night games 
Laughing, running bush to bush 
Who would reach the front porch first
Avoid the tag and not be “it”
Ready to play again 

It’s been far too long since childhood 
Was a time of innocence   
When living in a good, safe world 
Was the norm most parents sought
To protect their precious ones 

It’s been far too long that evil’s curl 
Has crept and slithered in this world 
Knowing that its time is short 
Its brazen shouts and taunting flaunts 
Fester before our eyes 

It’s been far too long my ear’s been deaf 
To hear the cry, to heed the call 
To understand or meet the need 
To realize where my part is
To stand against the fall 

Oh, God who gives all good we have 
Clear our vision in these days 
Protect, release all those enslaved 
Redeem their innocence some way 
Bring healing to their souls 

Whether slaves to masks or men 
Confusions or some unknown sin
Shine Your light so darkness flees 
Lies, deceptions, entrapments cease 
Let Your Truth make free 

~~~

LORD, hear the cry of all who are enslaved. Avenge the souls of those who have been abused, harmed, their lives taken by evil-driven people. Let Your Spirit pour upon the earth. Redeem the time the locusts have eaten. Restore our souls and our land. Only You, LORD, have the power to defeat the evil one. Strengthen us to stand with you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Psalm 94:3 NLT  “How long, O Lord?
How long will the wicked be allowed to gloat?”

Psalm 103:17-18 NLT  “But the love of the Lord remains forever with those who fear him.
His salvation extends to the children’s children                                18 of those who are faithful to his covenant,
of those who obey his commandments!”