THE WAYSIDE TREE

                                                 

A tree was once planted by the wayside,

From no passerby could it really hide,

Its leaves and full branches were all exposed,

To none this spreading tree a problem posed;

Its usefulness was hailed by everyone,

It bore much luscious fruit, second to none,

It welcomed the sun, it welcomed the rain,

All felt the tree in its place should remain;

Alas, one day, the tree cutter came by,

This tree by the wayside would have to die,

Despite the pleas of the voices that did cry,

Asking, the tree cutter to tell them why

The tree was not being allowed to live,

When to others it had so much to give;

They showed its use to many a needy,

How its fruit was used to feed the hungry;

They spoke of how it was a resting place,

That gave the weary shade, and strength to face

An onward journey, though rough, hard and long,

With a grateful heart and a thankful song.

They say that the prayers of many are heard,

And that God does listen to every word

Agreed by many, who sincerely seek,

So as one voice, in one prayer, we do speak; 

Please leave this tree by the wayside planted,

Please see it’s needed and very wanted.

The tree cutter listened with open ear,

Every cry and every plea, he did hear.

The tree cutter spoke kindly, words of cheer,

Driving away their every falling tear;

The wayside tree has been my gift to you,

A gift, you say, that is faithful and true,

You have shown today, it has served you well,

In all the life-stories that you do tell,

Would you now stop its opportunity,

Of being a bigger and better tree?

Would you deny it the freedom I’d give

In a more widespread, open place to live?

It’s being changed, not due to uselessness,

But because I’m pleased with its faithfulness;

My reward, to your tree by the wayside,

Is to plant it where it would be a guide,

A refuge and strength, to not only you,

But untold others who need my gift too;

This tree’s done well, you’re the testimony,

Today for the tree, won’t you be happy?

Yes, it must be removed from its small place,

My reward for your tree is grace, more grace                       

           

Amen!