'Love bade me welcome' George Herbert

I remember being introduced to this poem, when I was at Keele University in the late 70s, by Roger Pooley, who was an English lecturer. It has stuck with me since. I used it the first time I presided at a parish communion service,  post-ordination.  It is not just about the Eucharist, Holy Communion, Lord's supper - call it what you will -  but it speaks to me of that profound sense of invitation and welcome that is found at the table. In spite of everything we are. . . . .   It is the Innkeeper offering a meal to a weary traveller, The generous host welcoming an unworthy guest. The Father welcoming back his prodigal son.

LOVE bade me welcome; yet my soul drew back,
Guilty of dust and sin.
But quick-eyed Love, observing me grow slack
From my first entrance in,
Drew nearer to me, sweetly questioning	5
If I lack'd anything.
'A guest,' I answer'd, 'worthy to be here:'
Love said, 'You shall be he.'
'I, the unkind, ungrateful? Ah, my dear,
I cannot look on Thee.'	10
Love took my hand and smiling did reply,
'Who made the eyes but I?'
'Truth, Lord; but I have marr'd them: let my shame
Go where it doth deserve.'
'And know you not,' says Love, 'Who bore the blame?'	15
'My dear, then I will serve.'
'You must sit down,' says Love, 'and taste my meat.'
So I did sit and eat.

George Herbert. 1593–1632

for more on Geroge Herbert see his works and his life

 

'Let nothing disturb thee' Teresa of Avila's prayer

Let nothing disturb thee,

St. Teresa of Avila 

Let nothing disturb thee,
Nothing affright thee;
All things are passing;
God never changeth;
Patient endurance
Attaineth to all things;
Who God possesseth
In nothing is wanting;
Alone God sufficeth

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