by Mark Weinrich

The fruit of perseverance
grows against the grain,
against the current
of today’s hectic pace.
Ignoring the emotional
strain that makes it
easier to quit than
to persist.

The tenacious vision
of heart and mind
that views God’s 
transforming work
Spirit into spirit,
knowing anything
that comes into our hands
has already passed
through His.

Like Jesus, we know
the peace of faithfulness,
the contentment never
found in worldly success,
but the unbelievable joy
of following close 
no matter the climate
or opinions of our time,
for through Jesus
we will finish well.

Mark Weinrich lives a creative life as a writer, photographer, musician, and artist—all wrapped together in an outdoorsman. He is a retired pastor and nine-year cancer survivor. His writing and photography have appeared in over 139 news stand, inspirational, and literary publications. He has sold eight children’s books and currently has two fantasy novels on Kindle.