There's An Old Rugged Tree

On the outskirts of town, there's an old rugged tree
It's trunk and branches have brought new life to me
For it has been a reminder of an old wooden cross
Where Jesus my Savior died to pay my cost
As a young girl my sins were washed white as snow
And the light of Jesus' love in my heart did grow

But over the years my light grew dim
And some days I didn't even have time for Him
I hurried about my hectic life
I only sought Him in times of struggle and strife
I took it for granted God would always be around
And I know that many times I let Him down

It was a hot July day when my loved one was taken from me
Just God's angels present when he died at the base of that tree
In a matter of seconds my husband was gone
The cause of his accident is still not known
It matters not what happened, but only how his life he did spend
Before his time on this earth did end

This old rugged tree brought me such utter despair
And my old friend Jesus quickly took me under His care
At the base of that old rugged tree I fell on my knees to pray
"Dear God, I don't understand why it had to be this way,
But it is your will be done, and I humbly give you back my life today."

My precious Lord took the worst moments I have ever faced
To show me the power of his amazing love and grace!
For the old rugged tree that brought me such a tragic loss
Has now led me back to that Old Wooden Cross!!!!

This poem was a finalist in the August 2010 poetry contest