"MERCIFUL EMPTINESS"

How true it is, "I have found," that "Distance makes the heart grow fonder."

How true it is, that which I long for , I long for more when way off yonder.

I find at times when I am full, I loath the meat of my supply.

But crave it greatly when at once my well of plenty is made dry.

Oh what a fool to forget my strength is found in weakness.

Oh how oft I would trade this haughty mind for meekness.

Each day that passes without meat, my strength is sure to lack.

Oh for the Throne of Grace to find; oh for need to bring me back.

It is strange and hard to tell why emptiness I crave.

But I'll not find him near as well till I draw near the grave.

To let self die without regret, this is the key to the feast.

To let self live is to ere; then pride becomes the beast.

Will I empty myself? Will I purge myself of mine own?

It is doubtful. It is not - without He who is on my throne.

Of God, I do fear that which I must face.

Yet, sweet is this hunger that will soon be filled by Grace.

Fear not to hunger; for hunger is the merciful emptiness

That makes ready the banquet of the soul.

-Brother Robert Hunt