Having Compassion on our Contradictions

Written by

Titian, "The Tribute Money," about 1560-8

I am two men; and one is longing to serve thee utterly,

and one is afraid.

O Lord have compassion upon me.

I am two men; and one will labour to the end,

and one is already weary.

O Lord have compassion upon me.

I am two men; and one knows the suffering of the world.

and one knows only their own.

O Lord have compassion upon me.

And may the Spirit of the Lord Jesus Christ fill my heart

and the hearts of all people everywhere.

– Austen Williams (1912-2001), Vicar of St. Martin-in-the-Fields (1956-1984)

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