In this Thy world, O blessed Christ, I live but for Thy will, To serve Thy cause and drive Thy foes Before Thy banner still.
In rich and stately palaces I have my board and bed, But Thou didst tread the wilderness Unsheltered and unfed.
My gallant squadrons ride at will The undiscover'd sea, But Thou hadst but a fishing-boat On windy Galilee.
In valiant hosts my men-at-arms Eager to battle go, But Thou hadst not a single blade To fend Thee from the foe.
Great store of pearls and beaten gold My bold seafarers bring, But Thou hadst not a little coin To pay for Thy lodging.
The trust that Thou hast placed in me, O may I not betray, Nor fail to save Thy people from The fires of Judgment Day!
Be strong and stern, O heart, faint heart— Stay not, O woman's hand, Till by this Cross I bear for Thee I have made clean Thy land!