The Word in Focus with Dr Larry Taylor

Bells of old

Called us to prayer

Rang out in celebration

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Tolled in sorrow as our

Dead were solemnly 

Carried to the churchyard

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Bells of old

Told us the time

So we could check 

Our pocket-watches 

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Adjusting as needed

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Our rhythms were built

Around the bells of old

High in towers, forged with

Care, dutifully rung by

Strong calloused hands

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John Donne lay on his sickbed

Assuming he too would be taken

By plague, listening to the bells

Toll for victim after victim

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Bells tolling exits from this life

Bells bidding: “Rest in Peace”

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Trumpets resound in fanfares for

Royalty, in concertos for brides

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And, most noble of all,

To call the dead to life

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Trumpets bidding “Rise in Glory”