Samuel

(A Shakespearean Sonnet)* The brothers lie beneath a bloodied earth with thousands more to join them there; the mighty ark of God is stripped of worth, and lies in hands of hostile men of war. As Eli's priestly house is crumbled down; his heart is crushed, his sons he cannot mourn. he sinks from stature, prophet of renown, I've loved him from my youth; my soul is torn. Yet I must judge this sinful people well, in sorrow low they seek the Father's voice and I must quell the fear which seems to swell a prophet's tongue is now their one true choice. An oath will stand, that not one word shall fall into this cruel land, without God's call. *I Samuel, Chapters 1 through 7

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Margaret Franceschini

Date: 9/29/2014 6:49:00 PM

searching for examples I found your poem Samuel, which my eyes were drawn to since my future grandson's name will be Samuel Jeremy. you have beautifully written of the story of Samuel and poor Eli's life. thank you for a wonderfully written poem.

Cona Adams
Date: 9/30/2014 8:40:00 AM

Thank you, Margaret. The companion poem is "Hannah Rejoices," written from the standpoint of a mother who gave up her son to God, and made the trip to the temple every year to visit him. Our Pastor's name is Jeremy. Good names, both.