Take Her Gently, Lord

As the door into Your presence opens slowly,
And this world of suffering gradually recedes,
Hold her in Your tender arms
And take her gently, Lord.

Help her to let go, to rest his weary head
Upon Your breast,
At peace and without fear;
Knowing You are near.
May she find Your sweet, eternal rest.

Let those who love him so
And hate to see her go,
Be thankful for the years that he has spent,
And even through their tears,
Pray the unselfish prayer
Of relinquishment.

Comfort them, dear Jesus,
Surround them with Your love,
Reassure them of his welcome
To her home above.

Release her from this body
Of darkness and of pain,
Help her to enter Heaven,
A whole new life to gain,
To stand in light and health
And praise Your gracious Name!

By: Honoria (Nora) A. Groves

2 September, 1994

(Written for a family going
through the ordeal of watching
a loved one slowly leave this
world.)