My Burden by L. C. Beckwith

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · May 25, 1916

My Burden

By L. C. Beckwith

God laid upon my back a grievous load, A heavy cross to bear along the road. I staggered on, and lo! one weary day, A mighty lion sprang upon the way. I prayed to God; and swift at his command The cross became a weapon in my hand. It slew my raging enemy, and then Became a cross upon my back again.

I faltered many a league, until at length, Groaning, I fell, and had no further strength. “O God,” I cried, “I am so weak, and lame!” Then straight my cross a winged staff became. It swept me on till I regained the loss, And leaped upon my back again a cross.

I reached a desert, O’er the burning track I persevered, the cross upon my back. No shade was there, and in the cruel sun I sank at last, and thought my days were done. But lo, the Lord works many a blest surprise; The cross became a tree before my eyes.

I slept. I woke to feel the strength of ten; I found the cross upon my back again. And thus through all my days from that to this, The cross, my burden, has become my bliss; Nor ever shall I lay the burden down, For God some day will make the cross a crown.

— L. C. Beckwith.