When I was in high school, I came across a book at the school library. It was a curious little red book with the title "The Hound of Heaven." Who was this hound and what was it all about? It turned out to be Francis Thompson's poem about his journey into the dark abyss of drug addiction and living in abject poverty on the streets of London in late 19th Century. God would not leave this wretched character (Thompson) alone, exactly like he will not leave us alone, constantly in pursuit. That is how much He loves us. It is a rather lengthy poem so I will put a portion of it at a time. If you have never heard this poem, do yourself a favor and get a copy, Francis Thompson ranks as one of the greatest poets of all time.

The Hound of Heaven

I fled Him, down the nights and down the days;
I fled Him, down the arches of the years;
I fled Him, down the labyrinthine ways
Of my own mind; and in the mist of tears
I hid from Him, and under running laughter.
       Up vistaed hopes I sped;
       And shot, precipitated,
Adown Titanic glooms of chasmèd fears,
From those strong Feet that followed, followed after.
      But with unhurrying chase,
      And unperturbéd pace,
  Deliberate speed, majestic instancy,
      They beat—and a Voice beat
      More instant than the Feet—
  “All things betray thee, who betrayest Me.”