Love Bade Me Welcome
SATB Choir and Organ, some divisi. An exquisite setting of the George Herbert (1593-1633) poem. Not especially difficult and immensely satisfying to teach, to learn, and to sing. Perfect for communion anytime of year. You will love this!
Love bade me welcome, yet my soul drew back, Guilty of dust and sin. But quick-ey'd Love, observing me grow slack From my first entrance in, Drew nearer to me, sweetly questioning If I lack'd anything. A guest, I answer'd, "worthy to be here"; Love said, "You shall be he." "I, the unkind, the ungrateful? ah my dear, I cannot look on thee." Love took my hand and smiling did reply, Who made the eyes but I? "Truth, Lord, but I have marr'd them; let my shame Go where it doth deserve." And know you not, says Love, "who bore the blame?" My dear, then I will serve. You must sit down, says Love, "and taste my meat." So I did sit and eat.