ODE TO JOHN 1979 BY CHARLES YONGE
Keeper of leper midst dust and dry heat
If only I could meet your friends and visit your retreat.
O Franciscan Saint, martyr, God’s fool,
To walk in your footsteps if I might
An eagle on the wing has heard your plight.
Could I drink your cup, nay, and who can?
He gave up all for the Son of Man.
Rest assured guru full of wit,
It is with the King that you shall sit.
Senseless creatures did scatter your flock
They wait to be with you, running amok.
Into their hearts your love you did pour,
So now without you they know your love no more.
King of Kings who rules in heaven above
In John for his lepers there was so much love
Never in my life did I hear of such a man
Going about putting others first, like you Lord, and in mind your plan.
O reverend monk, keeper of bees
They now pray for you on their crippled knees,
And you know they’ll be with you once more
When Angel’s trumpets sound to even the score.
You’ve travelled far O noble Knight
Head held high and armour bright.
All prayers to Mary and Son and Holy Spirit mostly out loud
You’ve finally pierced that distant cloud