Hymn [poem by Menie Parkes]

[Editor: This poem by Menie Parkes was published in Poems (1867). This was one of three poems entitled “Hymn” that appeared in the book.]

Hymn.

Come, Spirit of the Living God!
I hate the ways of sin;
Take hold of my unworthy heart,
And deign to dwell therein.

Black it is in every part,
Dark and dull, I know:
But thou canst raise a flame of love,
Till all its darkness glow.

Cold, and full of cracks and flaws;
But thou hast fire and care,
Canst make it blush and burn with love,
And earnestness of prayer.

Come, come! Thou canst supply all wants,
And all diseases cure;
And I! — I long, I mourn for Thee,
For then I should be pure.

Source:
Menie Parkes, Poems, F. Cunninghame, Sydney, [1867], page 115