by Kathleen Alcott Happ
The Youth Speak to John Paul II:
Mighty lion, do not leave us.
Our plea clings to you like rain
Falling softly down your golden coat
To shoulders stooped with pain.
Steadfast paws are trembling.
Strong back is burden bent.
Iron will, lissome spirit,
Roar of truth; all creatures hear it,
Breath of hope fills those who fear it;
August gifts of God, now spent.
A cage now holds you captive
In a prison cell of pain.
The Fall has forged this fortress,
Adam's sin, now Aslan's bane.
Mighty lion, may we cheer you?
Dare to stroke your noble mane?
May we warm the frozen features
Illness dared constrain?
“Children, children,” speaks the lion,
Noble head now lifted high.
Blazing eyes now piercing clearly
Through the bars, thought strong, now nearly
Melting from his gaze so dearly
Fixed upon his youthful pride.
Tears anoint your grieving eyes.
My fortress stirs you so you learn
That mighty creatures fade and suffer.
You will also, in your turn.”
“You wish to comfort me,
To lay your hands upon my mane.
A tender vigil keeping
In the shadows, softly weeping,
As death in mystery creeping
Comes to sever soul from flesh and vein.”
“Children, children, I must leave you.
River Jordan calls my name.
I must cross her waters wading,
While your prayers entreat, thus aiding
Shrouded journey; willow shading
Mighty lion, shorn and tame.”
“As I vanish from your sight,
Listen to what I confide:
Let not your grief confound you
Or allow cruel doubt to hound you.
My protection will surround you
When I reach the other side.”
“I leave you in the jungle,
Where the Serpent lies in wait
To lure you with his empty lies
Should tender heel tread near his gate.”
“If that fell viper's fangs attempt
To poison you, my child;
Lift your voice and call to me
Across the savage wild.”
“I will spring with vigor now restored
And race across the plain,
Snatch you up within my jaws
And spurn the Serpent's claim.”
“I will cross the great Savannah,
Bearing you now safe from harm,
Up the highest mountain bounding
To the rocky peak; blood pounding,
And with roar of victory sounding,
Cast you in our mighty Savior's arms.”
