# Jesus Return explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by Henry van Dyke Jr..

## What happens

A prayerful poem invoking Christ's return to comfort the weary, the doubting, the burdened, and a war-torn world, asking for His silent, inward presence rather than a final apocalyptic arrival.

## Themes in this chapter

### Spiritual Peace and Rest

The poem repeatedly asks for rest, inward joy, and the renewal of hope through Christ's return.

### Faith and Doubt

References to 'doubt and conflict' and 'lamps that dimly burn' highlight the struggle between faith and uncertainty.

### Love and Sacrifice

The 'love that triumphs over strife' and Christ's role as Friend of Man underscore sacrificial love.

## Character check-ins

### Jesus

Addressed as the returning Lord, Friend of Man, and Prince of Peace who is implored to come in silent ways.

## Key lines

> I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.

Christ promises not to abandon his followers but to return to them.

_Opening epigraph from John 14:18 sets the theme of divine comfort and return._

> Return to this war-weary world, And help us all to learn Thy secret of victorious life, The love that triumphs over strife⁠— O prince of Peace, return.

The poet asks Christ to come back to a world exhausted by war and teach the secret of a life that overcomes conflict through love.

_Directly addresses the post-war context and the desire for peace._

> Jesus, we ask not now that day When all men shall discern Thy coming with the angelic host; To-day, to all who need Thee most, In silent ways, return!

The prayer does not request the final judgment day, but rather Christ's quiet, immediate presence for those in need.

_Emphasizes a personal, inward return over an apocalyptic one._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_10_se/chapters/jesus-return
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_10_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_10_se/chapters