Poem April 13, 1935 Issue

Invitation and Promise

WILLIAM COLWELL BARTLETT

Come unto me! Thus does the Christ invite
Not those alone who heard the words of old,
But they who, meekly, yet with courage bold,
Accept, and, leaving all, receive God's light.
Pain, weariness, and sin fade from the sight
Of him who asks alone that truth unfold
In consciousness, for such one shall behold
Himself God's man, in whom He takes delight.

Come unto me! Let weariness abate,
And fear dispel in this: I'll give thee rest.
This holy promise sweet speaks Love's behest
That lifts all burdens false of wrong and hate.
Thus human consciousness, when purged and blest,
Sees man—no more a stranger, but God's guest.