23 DECEMBER 1871, Page 16

POETRY.

FOR CHRISTMAS DAY.

To Christ the Reconciler,

Who died that man might say, " Great God, thy will be done l" I raise my psalm to-day.

Only a God could know The Godhead's secret will, Only a Man could feel Temptation's mastering thrill.

Only a God could open Backward the gates of Death, Only a man could show us Life ends not with the breath.

Only a man could suffer Beneath God's holy laws, Only a God could pardon,— Loosing effect from cause.

Only to man can Prayer, The gift of gifts, be given ; Only a God could promise A listening ear in Heaven.

Only a man could tremble At Death's deliv'ring blow, Only a God could govern As Thou art governing now.