 | Three Hundred Sonnets |  |
159
AN ASPIRATION.
O that I had a pastor near my homeHonest and earnest, wise and good and kind,
A man of gracious heart and vigorous mind,
Untainted by the pestilence of Rome:
How gladly would I recognise in such
The guide, the brother, and the priest combined:
With hearty help, albeit perchance not much,
Standing beside him, strengthening his hands,—
While he, uniting all men by the bands
Of Christian fellowship and social love,
Himself should illustrate what God commands,
Lift up our hearts to fix their hopes above,
And as the minister of Heaven be found
The honour'd friend of every neighbour round!
| Three Hundred Sonnets | |