My poem of the week this week, is this bold hymn by Johann Michael Altenberg, 17th century German pastor. He wrote this hymn during the turbulent times of war which followed the Reformation, and they seem pertinent today.<\/p>\n
Be Not Dismayed, Thou Little Flock<\/strong><\/p>\n Be not dismayed, thou little flock, Thy cause is God’s–go at His call, Amen, Lord Jesus, hear our cry; Author: Michael Altenburg<\/a>;\u00a0Translator: Elizabeth Rundle Charles<\/a><\/p>\n
\nAlthough the foe’s fierce battle shock,
\nLoud on all sides, assail thee.
\nThough o’er thy fall they laugh secure,
\nTheir triumph cannot long endure;
\nLet not thy courage fail thee.<\/p>\n
\nAnd to His hands commit thine all;
\nFear thou no ill impending:
\nHis Gid’on shall arise for thee,
\nGod’s word and people manfully,
\nIn God’s own time, defending.<\/p>\n
\nStir up Thy power, come from on high,
\nDefend Thy congregation;
\nSo shall Thy church, through endless days,
\nGive thanks to Thee and chant Thy praise
\nIn joy and adoration.<\/p>\n