A Poem for the Feast of St. Martin

This morning, I opened my daughter’s English 2 book at random. Opened it at “random”—ha! Didn’t I just say that with God, there is no “random”?

Here is the poem that I found on that page.

Here is the poem; I hope you like it.

St. Martin’s Cloak

Saint Martin was an officer
In the mighty ranks of Rome.
He traveled with the legions
So very far from home.

But, by and by, the Gospel
Reached this soldier’s ear.
He chose Christ for his Captain,
Then laid down his spear.

One night he met a poor man
Who was cramped up with cold.
Martin took his soldier’s tunic
And quickly made a fold.

He tore his warrior’s cloak in two,
And gave half of it away.
The poor man wrapped it ‘round him
Without a moment’s delay.

Some passers-by mocked Martin;
Others blushed for shame.
But he rejoiced to suffer
For God’s holy Name.

That night Martin had a vision
Of Jesus Christ the Lord.
He was wearing Martin’s tunic
And spoke to him this word:

“When I was cold and naked
My son Martin to Me came.
He clothed my nakedness with love,
And took away My shame.”

(Read the rest here.)

St. Martin of Tours, pray for us!

Today is also, as you know, Veterans’ Day. Don’t know where I’d be without the veterans in my life—don’t think that I’d be here, actually.