God, Grant Me the Glory of "Thy Gift"

God, widen my vision so I may see

the afflictions You have sent to me--

Not as a cross too heavy to wear

that weighs me down in gloomy despair--

Not as something to hate and despse

but as a gift of love sent in disguise--

Something to draw me closer to You

to teach me patience and forearance, too--

Something to show me more clearly the way

to serve You and love You more every day--

Something priceless and precious and rare

that will keep me forever safe in Thy care

Aware of the spiritual strength that is mine

if my selfish, small will is lost in Thine!

(Helen Steiner Rice)