Weeping Goes Forth the Sower

Christopher Newman Hall was an English Nonconformist leader in the nineteenth century and one who dedicated much of his ministry to writing poetry and songs. I previously shared his poem “Thy Way Is Best” and today wanted to share another of his—a simple sonnet based on a verse from Psalm 126: “He who continually goes forth weeping, bearing seed for sowing, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” Here is his poetic interpretation, his poetic encouragement:

Weeping goes forth the sower on his way ;
Weeping—although he beareth precious seed;
Weeping—because he knows his utter need ;
Weeping through many a dark and stormy day.
He weeps for goodly grain cast quite away ;
For barren footpath, and delusive soil
Where rocks, scarce hidden, all his labour foil ;
For early bloom of hopes that will not stay ;
For thriving plants choked up by many a weed ;
Yet ceases not to sow, and watch, and pray.
The Saviour, as He sowed, did weep and bleed,
But now rejoices with the fruit alway:
So, like the Master, he who sows and grieves,
Shall doubtless come again with joyful sheaves.