Thus from the first beginning, steadily
The work proceeded; yea, the Workman He
Who framed the Earth's foundation. Graciously
Wrought He and prospered, for Humanity
Needed His grace and power to set her free.
For as the earth was framed, and patiently
He waited for His laws to act, to see
The fruit of inward working; so, did He
Await the working of His Law, to be
The grounding of His Throne's stability.
Oh, what a marvel that no time would be
Too long, no care too great; in verity,
No gem too precious; no adornment be
Too exquisitely beautiful, to be
Lavished upon our poor humanity?
To make a home for creatures who would be
Heartlessly disobedient: can we see
This wealth of intellect creative, see
This perfect blending of a harmony
Born of design, nor worship Deity?
Can we not wonder almost equally,
That such stupendous power should seemingly
Be spent in vain? while, even thoughtlessly,
Its great results are looked upon to be
The heirloom of the creature? Verily,
Lost in amazement is the soul, to see
Eternal Purpose spending Dignity
And Wisdom and Almightiness, to be
Used by the creature so ungratefully
And all its fair world ravished, hopelessly.
A battle-field this earth was made to be:
The battle-field of each man's destiny;
The battle-field for Jesus. He would be
Alone the Champion of Humanity,
In whom All Good will triumph finally.
- text taken from Mary: The Perfect Woman, by Emily Mary Shapcote