THE CROWN OF THORNS

Heaven's glory crowned the Garden
Flowing rivers, crystal-clean
Eden's flowers spread their fragrance
All its grandeur could be seen.

Paradise in all its splendor
Never ceased to overflow
Violets danced among the roses
Not one thorn allowed to grow.

Oh, what sweet communion followed
God with man each glorious day
Without fear of one tomorrow
Promised joys would always stay.

Then a slithering Snake intruded
Speaking subtle-tempting lies
"Just one taste" he often chided
"and, like God, you would be wise!"

Sin soon birthed life's thorns and thistles
Jagged stems their vines were seen
Death and hell brought fear and horror
By this Madman's devilish schemes.

But the Man-of Sorrows entered
God-in-flesh His plan was set
Took the thorns of sin that bound us
Formed a crown! Full payment met!

Hallelujah! What a Savior
Praise the Lamb for sinners slain
Hearts and hands in holy worship
With one voice proclaim His name!
Ben Pent

EDEN'S FATEFUL CHOICE

How beautiful the flowers bloomed on Eden’s brow

The lion feeding with the lambs together grew

And perfect peace became the pledge for all to see

God’s awesome glory and eternal majesty.

No virgin love could ever match two hearts that day

As heaven’s Presence followed them at work or play

The Tree of Life whose leaves brought healing to all men

Gave Paradise one glorious hue of color blend.

But pride began to question freedom’s right to choose

The Serpent’s plan apart from God seemed better news

So in the course of time the fruit to make one wise

Became the sting of death that caught man by surprise!

But why this veil of night so cloaked in haunting fears?

Would man exchange God’s righteousness for mortal tears?

It was the price that disobedience had to pay

That formed this chasm touching every man today.

Yet from the ashes of despair the Lamb was slain

To bridge this separation from sin’s crimson stain

So while He calls for you to meet Him face to face

Receive this priceless Gift of God’s redeeming grace.

--B. Pent