Lord, today I have received Roses,
and I give them back to You…
Teach me to be content with their aroma.
Please give some to the people You have sent to make me who I am,
Please give some to the people who need beauty in their lives today.

Lord, today I have received Arrows,
and I give them back to You…
I cannot be trusted with such weapons.
You alone shoot with perfect aim and tension,
Your verdicts are always right and just.

Lord, today I have received Thorns,
and I give them back to You…
Teach me to release the pain they have caused.
Please fold them into a crown, and do as You must
So that people looking at me will instead see You.

Remind me, please, that each day’s provisions
Be they Roses, Arrows, or Thorns
First passed through Your hands
And are approved for my growth and Your glory.

Selah, Amen