Through the lattice

Through the lattice

by Joel Howard

"Behold, there he stands...looking through the lattice." 
Song of Solomon 2:9b, ESV

I was outside raking leaves

The Spirit said to me

It's no longer winter, It's spring

Funny, it seemed to me

So used to winter

I was ready

To dig even deeper

Winter-ready-me

But he stands there

"This one is yours"

And I, guffawing 

Here, inwardly

I see you smiling

Beloved, Groom

I see you smiling

I smile at you

"This one is yours"

He says to me

Jump in, child

My partner, be

And I come quickly

Ignore not thee

And I come quickly

My yes to thee

You have my eyes

Though pain is great

Though weary been

My thoughts of late

Weary of solo

Going alone

But if you are with me

My Lord, I'll go

Through the lattice

I see your fire

Your eyes, your smile

"Come with me, child"

For me to live is Christ

And death is gain

No matter what the anger

No matter what the pain

Like Joseph, turn, 

and cry now tears

But come then out

And lead your sheep

Like Joseph, come

Come, do I

Through the lattice

Now nod I