To read as Ezra read,
With words distinct and clear
To reach the listening ear
And help men understand.
This is my task.
To read to give the sense,
The vital part—the truth
Which forms the warp and woof
Of thought that underlies
The words I read,
The words which clothe the thought,
The words by God inspired,
With Spirit-unction fired,
The words with power enthused,
That pulse and throb
To penetrate the mists
Which so bemuse the mind:
Then hope and substance find
Set free this precious hour
To light the way.
So may I feel the sense
Revealed to me each day
And read with love—and pray
That all will understand.
This is my task.
The Reader who fulfills this plan
Will serve to heal his brother man.
