The Life and Poetical Works of James Woodhouse (1735-1820): Edited by the Rev. R. I. Woodhouse |
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CHAPTER 12th.
The Life and Poetical Works of James Woodhouse |  |
This is a most important paradox,
The Priesthood should explain to all their Flocks;
A paradox that ought still prompt their pow'rs
To studious toil, each Morn's and Evening's hours;
But most in days ordain'd, by Heav'n's Behest,
For Faith's reflections on its holy Rest—
Should knowledge—learning—reason—exercise,
To clear its judgments, and secure its joys!
Instead of mad frivolity and mirth,
And wit, and eloquence; all but little worth!
The God of Grace, with warmest ardour, urge,
With heavenly light their mental pow'rs to purge,
That each those Truths, and Mysteries, may discern,
All Pastors ought expound—all People learn!
By comments clear, that seeking Souls may find,
Full satisfaction for their thoughtful Mind;
Deliver'd from all doubt, and dreadful fear,
And feeling genuine joys, while wandering here;
With full assurance of eternal store,
When, with their Life, their labours will be o'er—
But by their blind misleadings all may miss
The way to earthly peace, and heav'nly bliss!
While views and visions of infernal dread
Must haunt their daily path, and dying bed,
For thus neglecting their eternal trusts
To feed their follies, and indulge their lusts!
The Priesthood should explain to all their Flocks;
A paradox that ought still prompt their pow'rs
To studious toil, each Morn's and Evening's hours;
But most in days ordain'd, by Heav'n's Behest,
For Faith's reflections on its holy Rest—
Should knowledge—learning—reason—exercise,
To clear its judgments, and secure its joys!
Instead of mad frivolity and mirth,
And wit, and eloquence; all but little worth!
The God of Grace, with warmest ardour, urge,
With heavenly light their mental pow'rs to purge,
That each those Truths, and Mysteries, may discern,
All Pastors ought expound—all People learn!
By comments clear, that seeking Souls may find,
Full satisfaction for their thoughtful Mind;
Deliver'd from all doubt, and dreadful fear,
And feeling genuine joys, while wandering here;
With full assurance of eternal store,
When, with their Life, their labours will be o'er—
But by their blind misleadings all may miss
The way to earthly peace, and heav'nly bliss!
While views and visions of infernal dread
Must haunt their daily path, and dying bed,
For thus neglecting their eternal trusts
To feed their follies, and indulge their lusts!
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CHAPTER 12th.
The Life and Poetical Works of James Woodhouse | |