THE HOUSEWIFE’S PRAYER

Lady, who with tender word Didst keep the house of Christ the Lord, Who didst set forth the bread and wine Before the Living Wheat and Vine, Reverently didst make the bed Whereon was laid the holy Head That such a cruel pillow prest For our behoof, on Calvary’s crest; Be beside me while I go About my labors to and fro. Speed the wheel and speed the loom, Guide the needle and the broom, Make my bread rise sweet and light, Make my cheese come foamy white, Yellow may my butter be As cowslips blowing on the lea. Homely though my tasks and small, Be beside me at them all. Then when I shall stand to face Jesu in the judgment place, To me thy gracious help afford, Who art the Handmaid of the Lord.