THE SISTER

N. T. Meek

(Based on an actual experience)

Marked off from all who on that train were trav’lling,

Clearly distinctive in the crowd and press,

Her presence indefinable and hallowed,

Witness to heavenly grace and pureness.

Untrammelled by the mad extremes of fashion

And free of vanity and worldly craze,

Unsought, a condemnation of the world,

Rebuking, silently, its bent and ways.

Bringing to notice that quiet sobriety

That checks the giddy worldling on his way,

Disclosing solid worth and quiet contentment

Holds forth the light of Christ’s soon-coming day.

A station neared, she rose to leave the carriage,

And eyes looked up; sure, some had been impressed,

And envied her deliverance from worldly aim

Sighed for such peace of mind and quiet rest.

She left the coach, left also an impression.

Fast on its journey rocked the noisy train,

Yet still her presence lingered in the carriage,

The vision stayed—and went—and came again.

Such is the power which quietly bears witness

That the believer knows another world,

Cherishes deep another hope and object,

Raises a banner, holds it up unfurled.

See how the world its emptiness discloses;

Compare her, worldling, with thy hollow choice,

Great angels marvel at such piety,

Behold God’s faultless order and rejoice.

Malvern