Were I to dig a trench between us both,
Forbid myself your touch upon the heart,
Instead of being wronged, I'd feel myself
Wronging you. And I, for my own part
Would cower under gazes sent from you
That told me how my foolish heart did falter.
No trenches, chasms, canyons can detain you.
Nor does your steadfast love sway once, or alter.
I cannot go from you where'er I am,
Nor run from omnipresence to the grave.
I cannot hide myself from all your beauty,
Nor give up what I never asked to have.
The thought of being known to every inch
Frightens me, but gives me sweet release.
I'm overwhelmed by bright and veiled presence,
And calmed by terrifying, daunting peace.
I love the feel of you as I'm invaded
And sheltered in the arms that made the earth;
When old and gray, yet I'll not be forsaken,
And I'll declare your power since my birth.
Most holy God, my Vindicator, Friend,
I never once deserved from such a One
This love that scoffs at trenches I have made:
This God who hems me in where'er I run.
postscript
Psalm 139. Just praise for the Almighty God.