 | Twenty-two sonnets |  |
19
The Crucifix
I fix devoutly on the Cross mine eyes,Where with bent head, with arms extended wide,
Thorns on His brow and spear-wound in His side,
The bleeding body of the Saviour lies.
Thoughts of past sin in sad remembrance rise,
While on the image of the Crucified
My tear drops fall; “Thou who for sinners died
Have mercy, Lord!” my guilty conscience cries.
His strength upholding may it be my care
To read the teaching of His Cross aright,
And joy to suffer all He bids me bear;
Not trials only and afflictions light.
Those keener sorrows may I love to share
Which still more closely to Himself unite.
| Twenty-two sonnets | |