sadness – Woodsmoke and Cardamom

Close to You

by Lucy M. Young

Dear Lord, I know You're there somewhere -
I never doubt it;
But, Lord, today You seem so far away.
I cannot reach you.
My heart is sad and empty.
My weary soul yearns for the gentle peace that only You can give.

I love You, Lord.
I need You.
With every breath I take I need You more.
Forgive my many sins of both commission and omission.
Cleanse my mind and heart and soul.
Eradicate unworthy, sinful thoughts and feelings.
Show me the path that I must take to bring me close to You,
And let me feel Your loving presence in my heart once more.

When Love Has Gone

by Lucy M. Young

What do you do when love has gone
And your life seems barren and cold,
When the plans you made and the dreams you shared
Your heart no longer may hold;

When hope and joy have been cast aside
And despair is your constant companion,
When it seems there is nothing worth living for
And you long for a quiet communion

With someone who really can sympathize,
Who can quietly understand
And fill up the void where love once dwelt
With the warmth of a friendly hand?

Well, you hold up your head and you put on a smile
And you walk with your shoulders thrown back;
Just whistle a tune and before very long
You'll be feeling the warmth you now lack.

You'll find it, you know, if you really try -
God never meant us to be sad.
With a smile on your face and a song in your heart
That is real, soon your heart will be glad.

Sunday Morning at Home

I cannot go to church this Sunday morning
And sadness fills my heart.
Dear Lord, forgive me this self-pity;
Take it away, destroy it,
And fill me with joy and peace
Of knowing You are with me
Despite the fact I cannot meditate 
In your friendly little church;
Listening to Your word,
Sensing Your presence near me,
Calming my anxiety and uncertainty
While I attempt to solve my daily problems.
Dear Lord, forgive my weakness and despair
As I stumble through the cold and lonely darkness
Where I cannot feel Your presence.
Walk with me, dear Lord, and let me lean
Upon Your everlasting love.
Fill me with Your light and let me know
That You are with me even though I must remain at home
While others worship in Your sanctuary.

Lord Keep My Faith Intact

by Lucy M. Young

Lord, keep my faith intact,
My courage strong;
And help me to ignore the cruel taunts
Of those who would destroy my confidence
In Your unfailing love.
I need Your strength
For I am weak and often feel discouraged.
Just hold me up, dear Lord, and keep me going
For yet another day.
I cannot stand alone, but with Your help,
I'll keep a cheerful smile upon my face
For all to see, and never let them know
There may be sadness in my secret heart.