A Vessel
The Master was searching for a vessel to use.
On the shelf there were many,
Which one would He choose?
Take me cried the gold one,
I am shiny and bright and of great value
And I do things just right,
My beauty and luster will outshine the rest
And for someone like You Master, I would be best.
The Master passed it with no word at all.
He looked at a silver urn, narrow and tall.
I'll serve you Dear Master,
I'll pour out your wine and be at your table whenever you dine.
My lines are so graceful and my carving so true,
and silver will always compliment you.
Unheeding, the Master passed on the brass,
It was wide mouthed and shallow and polished like glass.
Here! Here! cried the vessel,
I know I will do.
Place me on your table for all [men] to view.
Look at me, cried the goblet of crystal so clear,
My transparency shows my contents so dear.
Though fragile am I, don't cross me,
I will serve you with pride,
And I am sure that I will be happy in your house to abide.
The Master came next to a vessel of wood.
Polished and carved and it solidy stood.
You may use me Dear Master,
The wooden bowl said,
But I'd rather you'd use me for fruit; please no bread.
Then the Master looked down and saw a vessel of clay,
Empty and broken, it helplessly lay.
No hope had that vessel that the Master might choose,
To cleanse and make whole, to fill and to use.
"Ah, this is the vessel I've been hoping to find,
I will mend it and use it, and make it all mine.
I need not the vessel with pride in itself,
Nor the one so narrow to sit on the shelf.
Not the one who is big mouthed, and shallow and loud,
Nor the one who displays its contents so proud.
Not the one who thinks he can do all things just right,
But this plain earthen vessel filled with my power and might."
Then gently, He lifted the vessel of clay,
Mended it and cleansed it and filled it that day.
He spoke to it kindly, "There's work you must do.
Just pour out to others, and I'll pour into you.
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