Eternity dwells
in the heart of a man
but hidden from view
like a far-away land

he considers himself
an explorer of old
seeking new lands
and treasures of gold

he thinks of himself
an emperor born
ruling with justice
and enemies sworn

we’re tried in this fire
to remove all our dross;
we’re sifted and shorn
and counted but loss

‘till self is consumed
and God reigns supreme;
then, and then only,
are we elohim….