A HYMN FOR THE CHURCH MILITANT

     
     
           Great God, that bowest sky and star,
       Bow down our towering thoughts to thee,
     And grant us in a faltering war
       The firm feet of humility.
           Lord, we that snatch the swords of flame,
       Lord, we that cry about Thy car.
     We too are weak with pride and shame,
       We too are as our foemen are.
           Yea, we are mad as they are mad,
       Yea, we are blind as they are blind,
     Yea, we are very sick and sad
       Who bring good news to all mankind.
           The dreadful joy Thy Son has sent
       Is heavier than any care;
     We find, as Cain his punishment,
       Our pardon more than we can bear.
           Lord, when we cry Thee far and near
       And thunder through all lands unknown
     The gospel into every ear,
       Lord, let us not forget our own.
           Cleanse us from ire of creed or class,
       The anger of the idle tings;
     Sow in our souls, like living grass,
       The laughter of all lowly things.