Rest Before Service

Last weekend, I participated in a retreat where Dr. David Marshall of Duke Divinity School shared a poem by George Herbert entitled Love (III).

One interpretation is that it is a dialogue between God and a Christian soul; a Christian who doubts that he is worthy. I was struck by the second to last stanza. The soul finally understands God’s love, but the first thing he thinks of is “How can I serve?” God’s reply is poignant. We must sit and rest and taste in the goodness of God first.

I am often tempted to work harder and faster, trying to earn God’s love. I need a constant reminder that God already loves me. I wish to serve others only so that they can feel God’s love, too.

Blessings, my friend,
Agatha

Love (III)

George Herbert, 1593 – 1633

Love bade me welcome: yet my soul drew back,

            Guilty of dust and sin.

But quick-eyed Love, observing me grow slack

            From my first entrance in,

Drew nearer to me, sweetly questioning

            If I lacked anything.

“A guest," I answered, “worthy to be here”:

            Love said, “You shall be he.”

“I, the unkind, ungrateful? Ah, my dear,

            I cannot look on thee.”

Love took my hand, and smiling did reply,

            “Who made the eyes but I?”

“Truth, Lord; but I have marred them; let my shame

            Go where it doth deserve.”

“And know you not," says Love, “who bore the blame?”

            “My dear, then I will serve.”

“You must sit down," says Love, “and taste my meat.”

            So I did sit and eat.