Can I bind myself to that naked stake Shall I lift high the red-striped timber Will heart and hand fully lade partake Can flesh fade without a whimper? Do roses bloom without a brier Shall I bend Thy will to mine Doth dross consume sans smelting fire Shall branch preserve the Vine? How can I embrace the One Who gave all upon the tree If I loose naught of self to Son But cling knuckle-white to me?   Kristine K. Lowder