Countdown!

I have decided for this last week, I am going to (attempt to) do a short reflective blog each day of all the lovely things I have come to know and love (and will dearly miss!) here in Oxford. They will mostly be a series of "lasts," starting with my last evensong tonight. 

Evensong has been one of the highlights of my time here in Oxford. I've been able to attend services at New College, Westminster Abbey, and, most often, at Christ Church. I have grown to love and appreciate the tradition of liturgy. I will miss the intricate architecture of the cathedral, the breathtaking singing of the choir, the echoing acoustics of high ceilings, the responsive readings, united kneeling, flickering candles, reverent silences.

Tonight as we sang this opening hymn, all hearts and voices lifted in unity, I was nearly moved to tears: 

My God, I love thee; not because

I hope for heaven thereby,

Nor yet because who love thee not

Are lost eternally.

Though, O my Jesus, thou didst me

Upon the cross embrace;

For me didst bear the nails and spear,

And manifold disgrace;

And griefs and torments numberless

And sweat of agony;

Yea, death itself—and all for me

Who was thine enemy.

Then why, O blessed Jesu Christ,

Should I not love thee well?

Not for the sake of winning heaven,

Nor of escaping hell;

Not from the hope of gaining aught

Not seeking a reward;

But as thyself hast loved me,

O ever-loving Lord.

So would I love thee, dearest Lord,

And in thy praise will sing;

Solely because thou art my God,

And my most loving King.