The Call (The Disciple)

(The Saviour of the World, Vol VI Book IV Poem LXVIII)

Lord God, how great the mystery!

Thine own, their Lord refused;

For foolish things compared with Thee,

Thy wondrous grace abuséd!

And, lo, Thou turnedst unto those,—
Afflicted souls of many woes

Thou bidd’st appear before Thee!

To all the people scattered wide

Thy messengers Thou sendest;

To foolish souls whom men deride

Thy majesty Thou bendest!

Grant me to do Thy bidding, Lord,
And bear the message of Thy word

To some who hunger for Thee!

And, Lord, forefend lest trivial cares

My foolish heart so burden

That I reject Thee unawares

And lose Thy blessed guerdon;

Lest I should find myself with those,
Thy careless friends become Thy foes,

When all shall stand before Thee!