An awful mystery is here

1 An awful mystery is here
To challenge faith and waken fear;
The Savior comes as food divine
Concealed in earthly bread and wine.

2 This world is loveless--but above,
What wondrous boundlessness of love!
The King of glory stoops to me,
My spirit’s life and strength to be.

3 In consecrated wine and bread
No eye perceives the mystery dread,
But Jesus’ words is strong and clear:
"My body and my blood are here."

4 How dull are all the powers of sense,
Employed on proofs of love immense!
The richest food remains unseen,
And highest gifts appear how mean!

5 But here we have no boon on earth,
And faith alone discerns its worth;
The Word, not sense, must be our guide,
And faith assure, since sight’s denied.