I wrote the poem below many years ago when I was living in Venezuela for eight months doing mission work. Over that time span, three young people who I knew back in the States died. I had never really dealt with death before, and it was especially hard being away from family and friends. I felt like I had barely started to process one death when I would get news of another. Writing this poem was an outlet for my grief. Wherever you are and whatever you’re going through, I pray it helps put words to your thoughts and feelings and brings healing. 

SOAR

When the hurt is deeper than the ocean floor

And the pain takes your breath away

When you have no strength to stand

And can only slowly crawl

Crawl into the arms of the Father

Crawl into His embrace

He will engulf you with His love

When your world is shaking

And you can’t find steady ground

When you feel yourself slipping

And in your weakness fall

Fall at the feet of Jesus

Fall before His throne

He will pick you up

When your voice is raw from crying

And you don’t know what to pray

When you want to scream in anguish

And can only weakly whisper

Whisper the name of Jesus

Whisper a cry for help

He will answer your call

When the waves come crashing

And you find yourself tossed around

When you feel like you’re drowning

And in desperation grasp and reach

Reach up to the Father

Reach up to Him in faith

He will extend His hand

When you feel so all alone

And like no one knows your pain

When worries flood your mind

And you can barely hold on

Hold on to the Truth

Hold on to His promises

He will never leave you

When the road is long and hard

And you’re weary of the journey

When the promise of heaven seems distant

And you long to soar above

Soar above the storm

Soar on wings like eagles

He will carry you

ABOUT OUR BLOGGER 

Dani Rupp grew up in a small town in Ohio and is a true Buckeye fan, though she tries not to be obnoxious about it. In 2011 she came to PA to earn her Master of Social Work degree. After graduation Dani accepted a position as a mental health therapist for children and adolescents in Coatesville. She was a nanny for several years as well. During that time she lived in Kennett Square and attended Willowdale Chapel. She returned several years ago from South Asia where she learned to tolerate spicy food and cross the roads without being hit, as well as volunteered with International Justice Mission in their Aftercare Department. In her free time, Dani enjoys going on mission trips/traveling,  running, reading, and connecting with loved ones—preferably over coffee and a sweet treat.