The sculptor with his inner eye
Gazed at the rough-hewn stone, inanimate - grey
Could he, with his creative power and craftsman's skill
Transmute that hard unyielding stone
Into a living form of suppleness and grace?
A challenge to his mastery in that crude granite lay.
As awe-filled joy eclipses labour pains at birth, in wonder at new life
So he beheld his finished work - his vision manifested there
Triumphantly he laid his chisel down, a moment captured for eternity he'd carved
No memory had he now of throbbing splintered fingers, bruises and despair
O God! When my belief is shattered by dark forces, doubt and fear
Or when I feel the sudden hammer blow of tragedy,
Give me the courage not to flinch, though suffering I endure
Help me to realise that Your loving hand is carving out a destiny for me.
