The following poem was written in memory of Vern and Erwin’s mother.
“The way of the righteous is like the
first gleam of dawn, which shines ever brighter until the full light of day” (Proverbs 4:18 NLT).
THE SHINING STAIRWAY
I wasn’t at her beside, Never got to hold her hand, And I wasn’t at the funeral, For I was in a foreign land.
My mother died while I was gone, I never saw her face, But I can well envision How they sang “Amazing grace.”
“Through many dangers, toils and snares. I have already come; ‘Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far, And grace will lead me home.”
Returning from Colombia’s shore, Ill-smitten with the fever; I lingered long upon the bank Of Jordan’s rolling river.
I prayed to cross to yonder side, And trust my rest be given; Then I saw a shining stairway— ‘Twas the last ascent to heaven.
My Mother stood upon those stairs And looked back o’er the land. I called out, “Mother, are there others Who have safely crossed the span?”
A multitude of the redeemed Began to fill the spaces. I knew each one: though when I woke, Could not recall their faces.
To preach the message I am bound, As strength returns to me. “Amazing grace! How sweet the sound— That saved a wretch like me!”
The pathway of the just is bright, Increasing all the way; Until it makes ascent to heaven, Unto the perfect day.
Mom’s picture stands upon my desk— It’s sweeter than all other; I have this vision in my heart— Upon those stairs stands Mother!
Erwin Bourne
|