Like Trees Along the Shore

The Lord is my ShepherdI shall not want.Ps.23:1 Joy, in its finest formPales in the light of WantContentment takes the heart by stormAnd trumps the tempter’s taunt Want’s vice is full of waysTo vex the virtuous prayerContentment fills the heart with praiseAnd joy beyond compare Though life is full of grief(love’s groaning intercourse)Joy is its Comforter and ChiefAs we trust in its Source True joy is not the fruitOf much accruing moreBut grows, as love for God takes rootLike trees along the shore © Janet Martin Rom.15:13May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hopeby the power of the Holy Spirit.