She was old, and worn, and weary.
She prayed, "Lord take me home.
I'm so tired and oh, so homesick -
For that mansion of my own.

Lord, my youth is gone and I have used
All my energy for You.
Now, my voice breaks when I sing Your song.
Oh, Lord, what can I do?"

"Precious Child, do you remember
How you visited the poor?
How you lifted and encouraged?
How you laid hearts at My door?

There are jewels set within your crown
For deeds performed down here.
Now, it's your turn to be visited
So that others crowns may wear."

So, she waited for the Christians,
And she waited all alone.
Every day she talked with Jesus.
Then, one day, He took her home.

But, the precious gems that could have been
Gracing someone's golden crown
Were left waiting there in Heaven.
Not a worthy one was found.

So, the Master took those jewels
And He filled her crown yet more.
She had served her Lord while strength was good.
She had served while old and poor.

And the deeds whereby someone could add
Beauty to their crown for Jesus
Were left undone.

God, grant us eyes
To see as Jesus sees us!

© by Joan Clifton Costner http://underhiswings0.tripod.com