A PREACHER (Poem for speech)

A PREACHER’S PRAYER

I do not ask

that crowds so throng the temple

that standing room be at a price;

I only ask that as I voice the message,

they may see Christ.

I do not ask

For churchly pomp or pageant,

or music such as welth alone can buy;

I only pray that as I voice the message,

he may be nigh.

I do not ask

that man sound my praises,

or headlines spread my name abroad;

I only pray that as I voice the message,

hearts may find God.

-Ralph S. Centiman