Blessed are the poor in spirit!

Heaven's kingdom comes indeed

Knowing well our destitution

God alone can meet the need.

0 the bliss of those who sorrow

When released from sin's embrace

Courage, comfort, consolation

Come through his unending grace.

Persecutions often follow

Though we live in Christ's own name.

Blessings come amid the suffering;

Calvary's power is ours to claim.

Through the mystery of living

God reveals his love in part,

Yet the fullness - joy's own secret

Christ would teach the waiting heart.

May 1972