O Sacred Scripture, with what dignity
Hath been revealed the Truth of God in thee.
High as the heavens, deep as unfathomed sea
Reigneth the Word Omnipotent, to be
Received as Truth, that Truth may make us free.
From first to last, in all His ways, we see
One Word, One Spirit, working mightily.
Earth was not made, nor ever meant to be
The Kingdom of Election; wherefore, He
Wrought out His great Ideal, patiently.
He on created Being wilfully
Freedom of Will bestowed; benignantly
Allowed the will all tolerance; and He,
Who knew the frailty of Humanity,
That Grace alone its force could ever be-
Reckoned not sin against the race, ere He
The Law from Sinai gave; but tenderly
Watched o'er His fallen ones, and let them be
By prophets guided - such Methusale,
Seth, Noe, Abraham - the Fathers, see.
And Moses last on Sinai: oh, by Thee,
Dear Lord, was given the Law which, verily,
Revealed of sin the foul malignity,
Revealed the wealth of innate dignity,
And raised Truth's standard with her battle cry.
Now see a chosen People. Lo, did He,
The Everlasting Word rule mightily.
Jehovah was their King; yea, verily,
'I Am Who Am,' Eternal Entity,
Guided and blessed His flock, immediately.
They cast Him off: a mortal King should be
The King of Israel. Then did prophecy
Speak in His Name; Messias that should be
The Seed of David. Oh, triumphantly
Would He the Kingdom claim, eventually.
- text taken from Mary: The Perfect Woman, by Emily Mary Shapcote