A Psalm of Single-Mindedness

A Psalm of Single-Mindedness

Many years ago, I enjoyed Joe Bayly's writings. He challenged his readers (including me) with rather simple stories that carried powerful lessons. “The Gospel Blimp” was one such story in a collection worth reading. His book on death, The Last Thing We Talk About, reminded readers of final realities.

He also wrote poems, including a collection called Psalms of My Life. I first heard “A Psalm of Single-Mindedness” early in my adult years. But I heard it again at a funeral, and it was read by the speaker—Chuck Swindoll.

Today, it appeared again (as it occasionally does in one of my social media feeds), and I thought I’d share it here.

Lord of reality

make me real

not plastic

synthetic

pretend phony

an actor playing out his part

hypocrite.

I don't want

to keep a prayer list

but to pray

nor agonize to find Your will

but to obey

what I already know

to argue

theories of inspiration

but submit to Your Word.

I don't want

to explain the difference

between eros and philos

and agape

but to love.

I don't want

to sing as IF I mean it

I WANT TO MEAN IT.

I don't want

to tell it like it is

BUT TO BE IT

like YOU want it.

I don't want

to think another needs me

but I need him

else I'm not complete.

I don't want

to tell others HOW to do it

but to do it

to have to be always right

but to admit it WHEN I'm wrong.

I don't want to be a census taker

but an obstetrician

nor an involved person, a professional

BUT A FRIEND.

I don't want to be insensitive

but to hurt where other people hurt

nor to say I know HOW you feel

but to say GOD KNOWS

and I'll try

if you'll be patient with me

and meanwhile I'll be quiet.

I don't want to scorn the clichés of others but to mean everything I say including this!