The Larger Prayer

At first I prayed for Light:

Could I but see the way,

How gladly, swiftly would I walk

To everlasting day!

And next I prayed for Strength:

That I might tread the road

With firm, unfaltering feet, and win

The heaven's serene abode.

And then I asked for Faith:

Could I but trust my God,

I'd live enfolded in His peace,

Though foes were all abroad.

But now I pray for Love:

Deep love to God and man,

A living love that will not fail,

However dark His plan.

And Light and Strength and Faith

Are opening everywhere;

God only waited for me, till

I prayed the larger prayer.

~ Edna D. Cheney