richards odes

Roof Timbers

I attend St. Mary’s and have for many years

And throughout the centuries it’s known joy and tears

The happiness at weddings the sadness of farewell

The babies who have been baptised whose future none can tell.

I’ve shared in people’s pleasure and in their sorrow too

And through it all, my Father, I’ve always honoured you.

Sometimes, in a service, I confess my mind will stray

In a lengthy sermon or even while we pray!

But in those careless moments my eyes will wander round

And see the beauty of this church, which stands on Holy ground.

I see the mighty pillars that reach up to the sky

And those arches, so uneven, that they make me wonder why?

Then I see the roof supports all patterned red and white

And then up to the roof beams, a truly wondrous sight!

The beams are brown and wooden and even as can be

And thanks to some good carpenter, a true delight to see.

They make me think of Nazareth and a worker there in wood

And so I’m drawn back to You, in calm and peaceful mood.

Those wonderful roof timbers, which make a glorious whole

Truly lift my spirits, and gratify my soul.