Where was the peace?

when you gave everything

and were left clutching nothing

exhausted

of any divine desire

the flame that used to linger

in the ashes of your burned out world

Where was the hope?

when your character was murdered

by the spirits of gossip that traveled

in the black coattails of jealousy

attacking in the boastful voices that said

one thing here

and the opposite there

laughing, stabbing, even as you were falling

and yet, maybe your time of greatest need

was only an opportunity for a far greater glory

for your hope was always where

it always is

way beyond this world and all its trouble

and yet, maybe your season of trial

was only to mold you into a priceless pearl

for your peace was always here

in that Holy Spirit of comfort

a breath of life to spite the shadows

that healing spring bursting out, flowing over

your barren fields scarred by battle