The Mighty Staff'

As I went walking through the woods, I took my staff as a good hiker should. A piece of live birch, which I cut years ago. It stands six feet tall or so. Some bark I left on; some parts I shaved smooth. And it's natural crook fits my hand like a glove. When I confront an obstacle I must go around. I use it for balance to make my footing sound. And when I'm walking at my normal pace, It's used to knock down limbs out of my way. When I set up my camp, it's an extra tent pole, I've even used to probe a rabbit's hole' Holding back the brush so I can pass through, Has been a frequent use for it too. A living thing, provided by my Father up above, To bless my life and show me His love' Biblical men also carried a staff, (Yet if used in a modern city, most folks would laugh.) It is useful for herding stray sheep and goats, Or for some physical protection in some place remote. The staff symbolized the man to whom it belonged. And 'twas used for proof when Judah did wrong. A staff was often the tool used by God, Moses was told to,"Hold forth your rod." And the Red Sea was departed, revealing dry land; Then the waters closed, drowning Pharaoh's whole band. From personal experience I have to agree, With David: " Thy rod and staff are a comfort to me'" Arthur Ball(H.S.L.P.) September 24, 2006