Classic Poem

TIME was when I abhorr'd,
Too much a partisan of nature's bowers,
To see upon the Altar of the Lord
Fictitious flowers.

But now, more fully taught
Thy hidden spirit, Church of ancient days,
I find in this another proof unsought
Of wisdom's ways.

O Mother thou of men!
Who with all Heav'n unfolded in thy sight,
Dost yet no work of human hand contemn,
However slight!

But sanctifying all
That into thy full lap thy children bring,
Offerest their gifts with grace majestical
To Heaven's high King!

Offerest for them whate'er
Of beauty, Art or Nature may afford,
To Him who high o'er art or nature's sphere
Of both alike is Lord!