A New Song: Psalm 40

A song of self I used to sing
But solace this song did not bring.
    Song of lust and bawdy deeds,
    Satisfying selfish needs,
    Such song sung had planted weeds.

Then one day in weedy garden
Seeking from old song a pardon,
    I heard song that sounded new.
    Longing deep within me grew,
    To leave false song for the true.

It came to me in darkest night
Igniting in my heart a light.
    To me drawing oh so near,
    Voice so pure and ever clear,
    Broke my heart and drew a tear.

The steady light then grew so strong
And in the night came this new song,
    Clearing out my darkened heart,
    Taking selfish soul apart,
    Giving to me a new start.

And from this song anew I found
A cultivated sacred ground,
    Strength to pull the weed’s tough shoot
    From the leaf down to the root,
    Crushing plant under my boot.

Then springing forth from sacred plot
And by this new song I’ve been taught,
    Myrtle vines that far do sprawl,
    Flowers, plants, and trees so tall,
    Holy fruit comes from them all.

But even with this land so plush
At times from me will old song gush,
    Sacred ground old song will heave
    Killing plants and burning leaves,
    Causing broken heart to grieve.

I need your help to not forget
The song in me you did beget.
    Help me sing it every day.
    Give me all the words to say.
    Let your new song guide my way.