How far? How long?

How far, Lord? How far will my weary feet go before I can go no farther? How far? How many miles must I walk before You say I can rest?

Tired footsteps, one in front of another. No sense of where I am going, only that I am moving forward because of a promise that was given. Each breath is a gasping breath of exhaustion. I know that I must keep going, that I must continue on towards the goal You have set for me. But how far, Lord; how far?

How far before Your water of life soothes my parched throat and cracked lips? How far? How far till I am cradled safe in your arms knowing that there will be no more sorrow, and no more pain?

You have given me strength beyond all measure and courage that knows no bounds. Your gifts are plentiful and yet I wish that I did not have to go one more weary step in this world. But, because of Your promise I will set my feet on the path you have laid out for me. One slow step at a time, and "how far, Lord?" becomes "How long, Lord, 'till I see your face?"

How long?