Steadfast Love

You were beside me when I shivered,
when Mama was taken home,
watched over me through willful years,
my life touched by the tomb.

When the icy sleet crusted the mound,
that covered sweet loving arms,
that could have been the comfort,
this chilled, bitter heart to warm,

With watchful eyes and tender heart,
You knew my willful ways,
my rationalizing how the dart,
directed embattled days.

Your timing when You knew my depth,
to cope with challenge and harms,
and recognized my willingness,
to fall into Your arms.

You were beside me when my tears,
told You I'm glad You chose,
to stay in company all the years,
my heart was blessed--You rose.

Then all the comforts that You sent,
this girl could appreciate,
since You took all the punishment,
loves in this life--how do I rate?