This week I became aware of a poem written by Martha Snell Nicholson.  Diagnosed with four incurable illnesses, for more than thirty-five years she was an invalid, confined to her bed.  However her spirit was so triumphant through those many painful years, that she wrote some amazing Christian poetry that continues to challenge and comfort hearts today.

                                              The Thorn

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 of 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 has 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 thorns 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.