The Unseen Altar

Man the maker of cities is also a builder of altars: Among his habitations he setteth tables for his god.

He bringeth the beauty of the rocks to enrich them: Marble and alabaster, porphyry, jasper and jade.

He cometh with costly gifts to offer an oblation: He would buy favour with the fairest of his flock.

Around the many altars I hear strange music arising: Loud lamentations and shouting and singing and sighs.

I perceive also the pain and terror of their sacrifices: I see the white marble wet with tears and with blood.

Then I said, These are the altars of ignorance: Yet they are built by thy children, O God, who know thee not.

Surely thou wilt have pity upon them and lead them: Hast thou not prepared for them a table of peace?

Then the Lord mercifully sent his angel forth to lead me: He led me through the temples, the holy place that is hidden.

Lo, there are multitudes kneeling in the silence of the spirit: They are kneeling at the unseen altar of the lowly heart.

Here is plentiful forgiveness for the souls that are forgiving: And the joy of life is given unto all who long to give.

Here a Father’s hand upholdeth all who bear each other’s burdens: And the benediction falleth upon all who pray in love.

Surely this is the altar where the penitent find pardon: And the priest who hath blessed it forever is the Holy One of God.