A Poem for Someone Who is Suffering

The Thorn
by Martha Snell Nicholson
(a "mendicant" is a beggar)

I stood a mendicant of God before His royal throne

 

And begged him for one priceless gift, which I could call my own.

 

I took the gift from out His hand, but as I would depart

 

I cried, "But Lord this is a thorn and it has pierced my heart.

 

This is a strange, a hurtful gift, which Thou hast given me."

 

He said, "My child, I give good gifts and gave My best to thee."

 

I took it home and though at first the cruel thorn hurt sore,

 

As long years passed I learned at last to love it more and more.

 

I learned He never gives a thorn without this added grace,

 

He takes the thorn to pin aside the veil which hides His face.

 

 

Weariness

My sweet friend blessed me with this little "Emergency Packet" of chocolate, coffee, and Bible verses at the beginning of the school year.

If you've ever dreamed of running away from being a mom...if you've ever felt completely swallowed up from the demands of caring for your children...if you are so tired you can hardly see straight...or just need a shot of encouragement and hope to keep going, this is wonderful post!  I've read it a few different times and it never fails to remind me where my strength comes from.