The Thorn

The Thorn
I stood a mendicant* of God before His royal throne
And begged Him for a 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 that Thou hast given me.

He said, “My child, I give good gifts and give 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.
--by Martha Snell Nicholson
* “mendicant”= beggar

No further explanation is necessary...