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Anne Bradstreet

Meditation May 13, 1657

The speaker reflects on the return of God's presence and healing in their life, expressing gratitude and trust in Him.
Anne Bradstreet reflects on the changing seasons of life, likening them to the transition from winter to spring, expressing joy and gratitude for the healing and restoration brought by God's presence. She acknowledges the past struggles and storms, but finds comfort and refuge in God's faithfulness, knowing that even if challenges return, she can run to Him for help. Bradstreet finds solace in God as her shelter, shadow, and access to His throne, recognizing His greatness and blessings throughout her life.

Text

As spring the winter doth succeed

And leaves the naked trees do dress,

The earth all black is clothed in green.

At sunshine each their joy express.

My sun's returned with healing wings,

My soul and body doth rejoice,

My heart exults and praises sings

To Him that heard my wailing voice.

My winter's past, my storms are gone,

And former clouds seem now all fled,

But if they must eclipse again,

I'll run where I was succored.

I have a shelter from the storm,

A shadow from the fainting heat,

I have access unto His throne,

Who is a God so wondrous great.

O hath Thou made my pilgrimage

Thus pleasant, fair, and good,

Blessed me in youth and elder age,

My Baca made a springing flood.

O studious am what I shall do

To show my duty with delight;

All I can give is but Thine own

And at the most a simple mite.

Sermon Outline

  1. Spring and Renewal
  2. Winter's End
  3. Earth's Renewal
  4. Joy in Sunshine

Key Quotes

“My sun's returned with healing wings, My soul and body doth rejoice, My heart exults and praises sings To Him that heard my wailing voice.” — Anne Bradstreet
“I have a shelter from the storm, A shadow from the fainting heat, I have access unto His throne, Who is a God so wondrous great.” — Anne Bradstreet
“O hath Thou made my pilgrimage Thus pleasant, fair, and good, Blessed me in youth and elder age, My Baca made a springing flood.” — Anne Bradstreet

Application Points

  • Recognize and respond to God's presence and healing in your life.
  • Trust in God as your shelter and protector in times of trouble.
  • Express gratitude and praise to God for His blessings and guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the speaker mean by 'My sun's returned with healing wings'?
The speaker is referring to the return of God's presence and healing in their life, symbolized by the sun.
What is the significance of the speaker's 'winter' and 'storms'?
The speaker is referring to times of hardship and struggle in their life, but now they have found shelter and protection in God.
What does the speaker mean by 'I have a shelter from the storm'?
The speaker is expressing their trust and confidence in God as their shelter and protector in times of trouble.
What is the speaker's attitude towards their 'pilgrimage'?
The speaker is grateful and blessed by God's presence and guidance throughout their life journey.
What does the speaker mean by 'All I can give is but Thine own'?
The speaker is acknowledging that everything they have and offer to God is a gift from Him and not their own.

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