George Herbert: Redemption

 

Redemption

Having been tenant long to a rich Lord,
Not thriving, I resolved to be bold,
And make a suit unto Him, to afford
A new small-rented lease, and cancel th’ old.
In heaven at His manor I Him sought:
They told me there, that He was lately gone
About some land, which He had dearly bought
Long since on earth to take possession.
I straight returned, and knowing His great birth,
Sought Him accordingly in great resorts,
In cities, theatres, gardens, parks, and courts.
At length I heard a ragged noise and mirth
Of thieves and murderers; there I Him espied,
Who straight, “Your suit is granted,” said, and died.

Isn’t it true that all too often we attempt to negotiate our redemption on our own terms?  “Surely, it does not involve that with me”, we say to ourselves, in our moments of trial, doubt and challenge. 

The final line of this wonderful poem is a stark reminder of all that is involved in the “suit” that is granted to us by the Lord–both for him and for us.