A Child of Mine

A Child Of Mine - Author Unknown

I'll lend you for a little time, a child of mine God said,
For you to love him while he lives
and mourn for when he's dead

It may be six or seven weeks,
or thirty years, or three,
but will you, till I call him back,
take care of him for Me?

He'll bring his charm to gladden you,
and should his stay be brief,
you'll have his lovelly memories,
as solace for your grief.

I cannot promise he will stay,
since all from earth return,
but there are lessons taught down "there"
I want this child to learn.

And there, with you on earth,
this child of mine I lend,
for the many souls that he will touch
with the lessons that I send.

I looked the wide world over,
in search of people true,
and from the throngs who crowd life's way
I have selected you.

Now, will you give him all your love,
nor think the labor vain,
nor hate me when I call around,
to take him back again?

I fancy that I hear you say,
"Dear Lord thy will be done,"
for all the joy this child has brought,
all fateful risks we run.

We sheltered him with tenderness ,
we love him while we may,
and for the happiness we've known,
we shall forever grateful stay.

But you came round to call for him,
much sooner than we planned...
Dear Lord, forgive this grief,
and help us understand.