Keeping a Holy Lent - 18

Image by Mark Rothko

The verse below is the work of poet and preacher John Donne who died in 1631. If you find the syntax a bit difficult, spend a little time with it and you'll come to understand Donne's meaning here.

And for a truly contemporary rendition, listen to Jolly Napier's setting and let this be a prayer for keeping a holy Lent...



A HYMN TO GOD THE FATHER.
by John Donne

I.
Wilt Thou forgive that sin where I begun,
Which was my sin, though it were done before?
Wilt Thou forgive that sin, through which I run,
And do run still, though still I do deplore?
When Thou hast done, Thou hast not done,
For I have more.

II.
Wilt Thou forgive that sin which I have won
Others to sin, and made my sin their door?
Wilt Thou forgive that sin which I did shun
A year or two, but wallowed in a score?
When Thou hast done, Thou hast not done,
For I have more.

III.
I have a sin of fear, that when I have spun
My last thread, I shall perish on the shore;
But swear by Thyself, that at my death Thy Son
Shall shine as he shines now, and heretofore;
And having done that, Thou hast done;
I fear no more.


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