You have a hale heart, my child,
Locked up within your breast;
That heart may be by sin defiled,
Or filled with heavenly rest.
There are two bidders for your heart,
Two bidders so opposed:
And you are called to do your part,
Your choice must he disclosed.
One bidder is so kind and true,
His Name all names excel;
He offers now to purchase you,
And save your soul from hell.
His bid outstrips all earthly price,
He offers precious Blood;
That costly ransom will suffice
To bring your soul to God.
Another bidder, fierce and cruel,
Your heart would fain engage,
To fill if with such awful fuel
As envy, spite, and rage.
He bids the great world for your soul,
With all its pleasures vain;
O! come not under his control,
Throw off his curb and rein.
You have a little heart, my child,
To whom shall it be given?
Through Christ to God ba reconciled,
And start today for heaven.
ML 05/11/1941