had he and she not taken that bite

from the alluring scarlet fruit despite

the one warning from the One before Time

conceivably we would never know 

infinite grace, unlimited mercy

love in the hour of utmost need

scarlet was the fruit of the devil's labour

scarlet is the colour of a High Priest's payment

for that spotless robe over each of us

us who await our entry to the gates of pearl

gold paved streets but no bright shining sun

His glory darkens any star

will there be stargazing in heaven

are there shadows, anything His glory cannot reach?

will our knees be bruised, our feet tired

our throats sore from praises incessant?

or will His joy truly be our strength

our rest truly in Him?