Oh, how beautiful a Rose in full bloom,
Test of time brings forth decay and gloom.
Soft delicate pedals a delight to admire,
Conditions and time, radiance slow to expire.
It is the beauty that catches your eyes,
Similarity to Satan’s deceit and lies.
Stem and thorns are all that survives,
Same as God’s love and promise for our lives.
Temporary beauty could not sustain,
What protected it is all that remain.
The rose and I created by the same,
Uniquely molded to honor His name.
A mission for God our purpose to be born,
Look past the beauty and cherish the thorn.
VLK 1/3/19