The Kiss of Christ
Lo, there He hangs –
Ashen figure pinioned against the wood.
God grant that I might love Him
Even as I should.
I draw a little closer
To feel His love divine,
And hear Him gently whisper
“Ah, precious child of mine –
If now I would embrace you,
My hands would stain you red.
And if I leaned to whisper,
My thorns would pierce your head.”
‘Twas then I learned in sorrow
That love demands a price;
“Twas then I learned that suffering
Is but the kiss of Christ.
(This is variously attributed to Fr. John H. Hampsch, CMF or Caryll Houselander and maybe others. If anyone knows for certain who wrote this, I would be happy to know so I can give proper credit.)
