Noble Vessels

(Based on 2 Timothy 2:20-21) 

by Ralph I. Tilley 

In every large and wealthy household,
The kitchen is a place to behold;
Vessels fill the shelves from every mold:
Wood, earthenware, some silver, some gold. 

Some of these vessels are quite noble--
Chosen for work that is notable;
Strong, solid and very durable,
Their service is most invaluable.

Other vessels are cheap, average;
These don’t serve well as they grow in age.
The master finds these hard to manage--
So in time they have no more usage. 

Each Christian must make a decision:
Which vessel will fill all his vision?
Will the lowest be his conclusion,
Or will the highest claim his mission? 

How might I a noble vessel be,
One serving my Master faithfully?
Cleanse myself from all that’s unworthy--
Then He can use me when He’s ready.