As a second Lent reflection, I've been thinking a lot of hymns and prayers. The Christian tradition is full of wonderful prayers and songs that express deep love, longing and adoration for God (as it should be!)
But sometimes that's not how I feel. Sometimes I'm unhappy or miserable or I don't feel anything at all and I want to pray but I don't have the words and the deep, powerful liturgy I know feels like I'm lying. I wanted something I could honestly pray even when my own emotions are at their worst, and this is what came out. If you have a similar experience, maybe this will be helpful? Or maybe not. I dunno. Feelings are confusing.
My singing voice has been variously characterized as "bad", "really not good", and "please stop that", so if you want some idea of the melody here is a sheet music version and here is a link to some computerized strings playing the melody.
Be Glorified
A hymn for when the feelings are gone.
You promised when all the words were gone
To intercede with a voiceless prayer
So though I’ve nothing left to say
Be glorified.
Today I find no relief in you
Though grace surrounds me, it moves me not
If fallen tongues can sing your praise,
Be glorified
Teach me a prayer for the harder days
That a sinner like me might adore you
O shall you find faith
In this recreant saint
And be glorified?
Glorified.
I loved you once and I shall again
My heart will sing at the break of dawn
Though joy be scarce, I’ll follow you
Be glorified.
So when the feelings must take their leave
And empty silences fill my soul
Let prayers defy this weary flesh
Be glorified
Teach me a prayer for the harder days
That a sinner like me might adore you
O shall you find faith
In this recreant saint
And be glorified?
Glorified.