I Do Not Ask That Crowds May Throng The Temple

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Jan 7, 2015 3045

I do not ask

That crowds may throng the temple,

That standing room be priced;

I only ask that as I voice the message

They may see Christ.

I do not ask

For churchly pomp or pageant,

Or music such as wealth alone can buy;

I only ask that as I voice the message

He may be nigh.

I do not ask

That men may sound my praises,

Or headlines spread my name abroad;

I only pray that as I voice the message

Hearts may find God.

I do not ask

For earthly place or laurel,

Or of this world’s distinctions any part;

I only ask, when I have voiced the message,

My Saviour’s heart!

– by Ralph Spalding Cushman (1879-1960), who was a Protestant bishop who held three doctorates, and also published many poems. This poem is titled, “The Parson’s Prayer.”