George Herbert on Lent

It ‘s true, we cannot reach Christ’s fortieth day; 

Yet to go part of that religious way, 

Is better than to rest: 

We cannot reach our Savior’s purity; 

Yet are bid, Be holy ev’n as he. 

In both let ‘s do our best.

Who goes in the way which Christ has gone, 

Is much more sure to meet with him, than one 

Who travels the by-ways: 

Perhaps my God, though he be far before, 

May turn, and take me by the hand, and more 

May strengthen my decays.

Yet Lord instruct us to improve our fast 

By starving sin and taking such repast 

As may our faults control: 

That ev’ry man may revel at his door, 

Not in his parlor; banqueting the poor, 

And among those his soul.