God's Lent Child
I'll lend you a little while,
A child of mine, he said.
For you to love the while he lives,
And mourn when he is dead.
It may be six or seven years, or 22 or 3,
But will you until I call him back,
Take care of him for me?
He'll bring his charms to gladden you
And should his day be brief,
You'll have his lively memories
And solace for your grief.
I cannot promise he will stay,
Since all from earth return,
But there are lessons taught down there
I want this child to learn.
I've looked this wide world over
In my search for teachers true
And from the throngs that cross life's lanes,
I have selected you.
Now, will you give him all your love,
Nor think the labour vain,
Not hate me when I come to call,
To take him back again?
I fancy that I heard them say,
Dear Lord, thy will be done.
For all the joy they child shall bring
The risk of grief will run.
We will shelter him with tenderness
We will love him while we may,
And for the happiness we have known,
Forever grateful stay.
But should the angels call for him,
Much sooner than we have planned
We will brave the bitter grief
That comes and try to understand.

I am so sorry for your loss. Your family continues to be in my prayers.