The Hobo's Prayer
Ross H.L. Bowen
While working in a freight yard
And switching out some cars,
Some were going a little way,
And others, very far;
I walked to throw the switches
To face the other way --
That's when I heard a prayer
From a man all dressed in grey.
"Dear Lord, please let my freight car
Stay always on the rails.
Make p'licemen look the other way
So I won't get thrown in jail.
And let me find a mission
For a place to lay my head
I know it ain't no hotel suite,
But at least I got a bed.
"Let me find a meal to eat each day
And clothes for me to wear,
'N I'll feel so much more confident
Just knowin' You are there
You'll guide me safe from state to state
An' keep me safe from harm
I know with Your pertection, God,
That I'll always be warm.
"Well, Lord, I'm gonna leave You now --
But I'll be back real soon --
I know there's folks who need You, too
On this fine afternoon.
Guide all the railroad men
Who travel o'er this land,
'N if You see a near-collision, Lord,
Please take the crewman's hand."
I'm 'sposed to turn all vagrants in
To the local Chief
He'd be tried like any criminal,
Or like a common thief!
But I just couldn't do it
To the hobo dressed in grey,
'Cause God has been protecting him --
That's why I walked away
By: Ross H.L. Bowen
c. 1989
Page Created : Pam Gallo
Midi: Tragedy
