The Hairy Mantle

Sept. 8, 1997

Elijah wore a mantle of humble origin.

Twas not refined or elegant to impress his noble kin.

And John the Baptist wore the same,

In kindred spirit true.

With courage and defiance to speak of what they knew.

And so the hairy mantle,

Though not adorned today,

Can still be seen among us,

In men called to His way.

A spirit of compassion and unassuming stance,

With charismatic wisdom and piercing eyes a glance.

Such servanthood is rare indeed,

And often falsified.

With title and respect of men,

Such counterfeits arrive.

Don't seek the "hairy mantle",

For surely if you do,

The burden of it's servanthood,

Will soon devour you.

But let the Spirit bring you to,

God's chosen time and place,

And with submitting spirit,

Your life will show His grace.