MY BURDEN by Amos R. Wells

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Dec 24, 1902

MY BURDEN.

By Amos R. Wells

[Amos R. Wells, in Christian Advocate.]

God laid upon my back a grievous load, A heavy cross to bear along the road.

I staggered on, and lo! one weary day, An angry lion sprang across my 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, Then 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!

Auburndale, Mass.