A Poem for Graduation

So I have now officially "graduated" from "high school" homeschool (as of June 30th). While there are more important milestones in life, this one being somewhat artificial, I am glad for the opportunity to take a look at where I have been and where I am going. Here is a poem that I wrote for the occasion trying to express some of my vision for my life. 

Beyond the Windy Plains 

Lo, beyond the windy plains with tumbleweeds and space 

There is a land that I call home, to me a special place.

'Tis not because of fame or wealth that its call I still hear,

But 'tis because its need and strife I feel a falling tear.

There are many lands both far and wide that give a lonesome call,

This land is not the only one that feels the dreadful Fall.

But I am one, I cannot do but this to serve God now:

Just one man's work by His dear grace, in finite space to plow.

But who am I, that I do think to do so great a work?

I am but a poor sinner, weak, and dangers 'round me lurk.

What if in trying to do kind help, I think I stand, but fall? 

What if by trying to do great things I bring down greater gall? 

But is this life? to never do because the fear of sin? 

Should not I fear almighty God, and in His name begin? 

Ah, here is hope, for with this fear we see our faith's sound rest 

And with this faith we hold to God who leads us through the test.

So if I'm with God, and He with me, I shall not fear to plan 

To do a loving pastor's share in guiding erring man,

To love my own dear family, to serve and lead and fight,

For Christ's covenant and kingly crown, for honor and for right! 

I see around our dinner board, the olive plants and vine.

How happy I see these treasures dear, what blessed joy in mine! 

My Rose of Sharon brightly beams hospitable grace and duty

With godly wisdom and her love, our house does shine with beauty.

And there the "simple" parish church, my beloved and my flock–

'Tis not simple to those that know, it's people reel and rock.

I am no better, 'tis God will save her, through many a stormy sea;

She'll continue to rise, come back again and make the Devil flee.

And in the light of Christ's loved bride the peoples all will walk 

And our own county, city, street, will of Lord Jesus talk.

Whether friend or foe, man or fool, the wise or wicked one, 

They all must face the news we bring, to stand before the Son. 

This and more, my vision, dream, is what in faith I take 

For my calling and duty near, for this my goal I make.

Oh that God would wrought in us for Him a greater zeal, 

Love that comes from a pure heart, His Spirit as our seal!