None of Self

Oh, the bitter shame and sorrow,

That a time could ever be

When I let the Saviour's pity

Plead in vain, and proudly answered:

"All of self and none of Thee!"

 

Yet He found me; I beheld Him

Bleeding on the accursed tree,

Heard Him pray: "Forgive them, Father";

And my wistful heart said faintly:

"Some of self and some of Thee!"

 

Day by day His tender mercy,

Healing, helping, full and free,

Sweet and strong and, Ah! so patient,

Brought me lower, while I whispered:

"Less of self and more of Thee!"

 

Higher than the highest heaven,

Deeper than the deepest sea,

Lord, Thy love at last has conquered;

Grant me now my spirit's longing:

"None of self and all of Thee!"

 

--- Theo Monod

 

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