Poem October 28, 1933 Issue

Bethesda Pool

MAUDE DE VERSE NEWTON

Many seasons beside the pool
I sought the troubled waters first in line,
But ever as I strove to go
Another's step was swifter than was mine.

Bowed in spirit I lay and wept,
When softly through my blinding grief there came
The kindest voice men ever heard,
And he who spake was Jesus called by name.

Yea, my brethren, it was that man,
The like of whom was never seen before;
His vesture was of spotless white,
And radiant the noble mien he bore.

Words he uttered with meaning new;
So gentle was his touch, so bright his face;
Nor needed I Bethesda's fount—
Obeying him I stood within that place.

Whole and joyous, upright and free,
I thought to praise him but could find him not;
I know but this, that I am well
Who stand with hallelujahs on this spot.

Looked he within my very soul,
And sweetly then as balm of Gilead
I felt such wondrous, healing grace
As left me purged and humble as a lad.

Countless questions men asked of me,
But scarcely could I utter what befell;
Behold me clean and strong and true—
That man of God the truth of it can tell.

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