Me:  I wonder who else has been in these parts?

Prodigal:  I wonder what people were thinking as they looked around.

Me:  Here is a poem from an unknown Confederate soldier.

 

I asked God for strength that I might achieve.

I was made me weak that I might learn humbly to obey.

 

I asked God for health that I might do great things.

I was given infirmity that I might do better things.

 

I asked for riches that I might be happy.

I was given poverty that I might be wise.

 

I asked for power that I might have the praise of men.

I was given weakness that I might feel the need of God.

 

I asked for all things that I might enjoy life.

I was given life that I might enjoy all things.

 

I got nothing I asked for

but everything I had hoped for…

 

Almost despite myself

My unspoken prayers were answered.

 

I’m among all men am most richly blessed.

 

 

Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.  Matthew 11:28

 

Jennifer Van Allen

www.theprodigalpig.com

www.faithincounseling.org