No Better Than Jonah

No Better Than Jonah Like Jonah in a smelly jail made of flesh and bone of whale. You called to me and said to go then like a fool I told you no. I waited years for Your next word silence was both felt and heard. How could I know You're in my heart yet still my world could fall apart. All I had more than I could crave I lost it all You so freely gave. If I had done what I was told my fertile heart would not grow cold. Of the things You came to give I lost the home where I used to live. Like a storm came hate and strife goodbye to you my loving wife. I stood and saw as my dreams shattered still thinking earthly things all mattered. One by one I watched them go so much it seems I did not know. Over time betrayed by friends living proof that true love ends. Even things I saw I could not see my family too all turned on me. Broken beaten and all alone my bread to eat an unwashed stone. Crying through the darkest night Your words to me I'll be alright. I knew somehow though bittersweet my world destroyed, not my defeat. It went unsaid but my heart knew I'd have kept it all if true to You. The wretched man I came to be by Your grace You let me see. Your mercy put my life on track as I watch in awe as it all comes back. Edwin C Hofert For Fighting God Poetry Contest