April 17

Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight! — Isa 5:21

Shall I ask the brave soldier who fights at my side,
In the cause of mankind, if our creeds agree?
Shall I give up the friend I have valued and tried,
If he kneel not before the same altar as me?
— Thomas Moore.

I met a little Elf-man once,
Down where the lilies blow.
I asked him why he was so small
And why he didn’t grow.

He slightly frowned, and with his eye
He looked me through and through.
“I’m quite as big for me,” said he
“As you are big for you.”
— John Kendrick Bangs.

Prayer

Loving Father, grant that I may not barter love with formalities, nor sacrifice love for customs. But, may I have a fellowship that is true and sincere, and that may be counted on, though all and for all. Amen.