REST

(On the death of a sister in Christ)

One who had answered to the Saviour’s call,

“Come unto me…and I will give you rest”

Took up the yoke of Him who served us all,

As many whom she worked for can attest.

As Martha served, she served, but now is blessed

In dying “in the Lord”. This is reserved

For her and all who serve Him: they shall rest,

But God will not forget that they have served.

For those she loved and served most, who are left,

The Man who is of meek and lowly heart

Tells them - as when He was Himself bereft

Of one He loved - “Come ye yourselves apart

Into a desert place and rest a while” -

To learn His touch, and sympathetic smile.