Poem January 1, 1955 ISSUE

NO SMELL OF FIRE

Adelaide Rothenberg

Were we afraid, you ask.
Afraid? Of what?
Our contact was with God and not with fear.
The blare of music calling all to bow
to pagan gods we heeded not. We knew
that demon thoughts and prayers of idol worshipers
rise not to heaven but remain unknown—
unheard and unfulfilled.

                                      The living God,
the God of Israel—He heard our prayer.

So when we bowed not to the king's decree,
the strong men cast us, bound, into the fire,
whose flame devoured the strong men instantly,
but touched us not! Our thoughts were winged with faith.
And we were not alone; there walked with us
the angel of His presence, heralding
to unbelieving eyes the power of God!
For we emerged unfettered, carrying
no smell of fire to taint our holy faith.

You ask were we afraid.
Afraid? Of what?
Man's contact is with God and not with fear.
You ask in trembling tones because you fear
your faith will falter and the searing bands,
which seem to hold you helpless, will not yield.
Oh, waver not! Stand firm! The hand of God
will lead you safely through the fiery trial,
while angels gently bring release to you.
Not even smell of fire shall then remain
to hint there was a flame. You shall retain,
rejoicingly, the proof of steadfast faith.

Adelaide Rothenberg
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