A Keeper Redeemed

Wild flowers ran amok in the ignorance of youth endured,

This Garden unkempt, untended, tangled with thorns,

So long I bristled at every prick, but never bore the blame,

Though now I see the deed and oath have ever borne my name.

Gladly I toil for the glory I have glimpsed.

In faith I nourish this hallowed gift,

To clear and till and sow,

To plant each lovely seed and tender shoot,

And eagerly watch them grow.

This garden sanctuary,

My refuge of peace, comfort in troubled times,

Place to lay my head and rest,

Blessed communion circumscribed by transcendent oath and sign,

Righteous pleasure our blossom on the vine.

Oh I hear her calling now,

My Promised Land while passing through.

Her song a plea of passion,

Her fragrant scent adrift upon the breeze,

Blows from a land flowing with milk and honey,

Full of wine to make my heart rejoice.

I lift my voice and answer,

Arise to stride through her guarded gates swung wide,

Received with cries of delight, soil moaning beneath my calloused might

Treading gentle and firm.

Clusters of grapes sway softly with every breath,

I take and eat.

Her love a purple lilly potion brewed to heal,

I drink my fill.

Oh what blessed refreshment all my efforts now yield.

I pray thee Lord, keep me faithful.