*Pastor’s Note: Helen Steiner Rice (1900-1981) was an influential American writer of inspirational and Christian poetry. She wrote and sold millions of books of her verses. Her poetry is quoted almost everywhere. My prayer is that you will be blessed and inspired by her poetry as much as I am.

THE MASTERPIECE

Beauty of Earth and Nature
Framed by the vast, unlimited sky,
Bordered by mighty waters,
Sheltered by beautiful woodland groves,
Scented with flowers that bloom and die,

Protected by giant mountain peaks
The land of the great unknown
Snowcapped and towering, a nameless place
That beckons man on as the gold he seeks,

Bubbling with life and earthly joys,
Reeking with pain and mortal strife,
Dotted with wealth and material gains
Built on ideals of girls and boys,

Streaked with toil, opportunity’s banner unfurled
Stands out the masterpiece of art
Painted by the one great God
A picture of the world.

From The Poems and Prayers of Helen Steiner Rice: Poetry by Hele Steiner Rice. Used by permission. All rights reserved.