In Nepthalim of Galilee, beyond
Swift flowing Jordan and Zabulon's hill,
To those who sat in darkness and the shade
Of death a glorious light hath been revealed
By that dear Lord who preached those warning words
"Repent! for now God's kingdom is at hand."
And to those simple fisher-folk who toiled
Both late and early with their busy nets
In the deep waters of Gennesareth
Their daily bread to win, he spake and said,
"Come ye; leave boats and nets and follow me,
And I will make you fishers e'en of men."
Thus Simon-Peter, Andrew, James, and John,
Unquestioning, obeyed the Master's word,
And, quitting parents, family, and friends,
Enrolled themselves disciples of the Lord.
At Jesus' feet, upon the mountain side
Which overlooked the fair Capernaum,
The chosen sat and yearned to hear the words
Of Truth and wisdom from their Master's lips.
Then opened he his mouth and, teaching, said,
"Bless'd are the poor in spirit; they shall have
God's own bright kingdom as inheritance.
Blessed are they that mourn; for comfort shall
To them be aye vouchsafed.
Blessed the meek;
For they the good things of the earth shall win:
And blessed are they who after righteousness
Do hunger and do thirst; they shall be filled.
Blessed indeed the just and merciful;
For they my father's mercy shall obtain.
Blessed beyond all words the pure in heart;
For they shall see my Father face to face.
The peacemakers on earth are doubly bless'd;
They shall be called the children of the Lord.
And blessed they who suffer for the right;
They also in my Father's house shall bide.
Blessed are they whom men do persecute,
