The Children Of The Lord Poem by Denis Martindale

From the beginning, it was decreed
That love in itself does not create life.
For love, even in its own form of life,
Has no power to create anything new.
Love is not God, but God is love.
It is He alone who brings forth life.
The human soul is bonded to its body.
From the creation of life, it is eternal.
Even after death, the soul goes on.
It is no light thing for consideration.
We do our part and the Lord does His.
Not all are granted an inheritance.
Even the righteous have no guarantee.
Even the redeemed have no certainty.
But to those who receive a child,
God looks upon the hearts of men and women,
Knowing the future as well as the past.
To Him, no secrets are Hid from His eyes.
Blessed are the ones who find His favour,
Yet do not boast and offend others.
Rejoice in your inheritance from the Lord.
It is your portion, now and for eternity.
Yet know this, love is patient...
A child is a fragile thing and slow to learn.
To teach a child is a great honour.
To love a child is a noble joy.
Be proud only in God's teachings.
They were not given in vain,
Nor without the sacrifice of Christ.
Prepare each child for the journey of life.
For what lies ahead is no easy path.
Money is a small gift compared to time.
Pity the child who has money but little love.
The children of the Lord learn to pray.
May they bring healing to their parents' hearts.
May they honour them and respect them also.
May they help around the happy home.
For what is love but a helping hand?
And what is love without a faithful spirit?
The Lord of Heaven knows us deeply.
His patience and longsuffering seek perfection.
Search yourselves to see the faults within.
Strive not for a better world, but a better you.
For the Lord created children for His glory.
May they sing the holy hymns and praise Him.
Teach them of the Teacher, Jesus, the Son of God...