Before an Altar <br /> <br />I wish I were the little key <br />That locks Love's Captive in, <br />And lets Him out to go and free <br />A sinful heart from sin. <br /> <br />I wish I were the little bell <br />That tinkles for the Host, <br />When God comes down each day to dwell <br />With hearts He loves the most. <br /> <br />I wish I were the chalice fair, <br />That holds the Blood of Love, <br />When every flash lights holy prayer <br />Upon its way above. <br /> <br />I wish I were the little flower <br />So near the Host's sweet face, <br />Or like the light that half an hour <br />Burns on the shrine of grace. <br /> <br />I wish I were the altar where, <br />As on His mother's breast, <br />Christ nestles, like a child, fore'er <br />In Eucharistic rest. <br /> <br />But, oh! my God, I wish the most <br />That my poor heart may be <br />A home all holy for each Host <br />That comes in love to me.<br /><br />Abram Joseph Ryan<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/a-child-s-wish-3/
