A Blessing

[158 words] One day I paused to see the needOf a poor man beside the wayAnd thought to divest myself of greedAnd help him just today.My mind kept saying, “He’s no good,He brought it on himself.”But my heart kept saying, “I really shouldJust do it for myself.”I gave my hand to lift him upAnd brought him to his feet.What harm if we together sup,Then part upon the street?This was to be my day of days,And joy would fill my soulFor when I met his level gaze,I saw our Lord’s dear goal.I fed him well and clothed him, too.We talked ’til break of day.I knew not how much good ’twould doAs we parted upon the way.But, oh, the joy that fills my heart,That sets my soul aflame;And gives my spirit a fresh, new startTo extol His holy name. James W. Watkins1926-2022…