A Lull in Life by Frances Ridley Havergal

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · May 29, 1913

A Lull in Life

By Frances Ridley Havergal

FRANCES RIDLEY HAVERGAL

Many a voice has echoed the cry for “a lull in life,” Fainting under the noontide, fainting under the strife. Is it the wisest longing? Is it the truest gain? Is not the Master withholding possible loss and pain?

Perhaps, if he sent the lull, we might fail of our heart’s desire!

Swift and sharp the concussion striking out living fire, Mighty and long the friction resulting in living glow, Heat that is forced of the Spirit, energy fruitful in flow.

What if the blast should falter, what if the fire be stilled, What if the molten metal cool ere the mold be filled? What if the hands hang down when a work is almost done? What if the sword be dropped when a battle is almost won?

Art thou patiently toiling, waiting the Master’s will For a rest that never seems nearer, a hush that is far off still? Does it seem that the noisy city never will let thee hear The sound of his gentle footsteps drawing, it may be, near?

Does it seem that the blinding dazzle of noonday glare and heat Is a fiery veil between thy heart and visions high and sweet? What though “a lull in life” may never be made for thee? Soon shall a better thing be thine, the Lull of Eternity!

— Selected.