One day while Jesus sat at rest
He asked the twelve to say
What was it they disputed, as
They walked along the way.
But they replied not, for they had
Disputed which should gain
The greatest rank and power, when
Their Lord should come to reign.
Then Jesus said : "If any man
Desire the highest place,
He shall be last, and servant, too,
Within the realm of grace."
He set a child in midst of them,
Then took him in His arm,
And said : "Whoso receiveth such,
And shieldeth him from harm,
"Receiveth me, if, with true love,
He does it in my name,
And not only receiveth me,
But Him from whom I came."
