Not Worthy, Lord, to Gather -- Hymn Lyrics

1 Not worthy, Lord! to gather up the crumbs
with trembling hand that from thy table fall,
a weary, heavy-laden sinner comes
to plead thy promise and obey thy call.

2 I am not worthy to be thought thy child,
nor sit the last and lowest at thy board;
too long a wand'rer and too oft beguiled,
I only ask one reconciling word.

3 One word from thee, my Lord, one smile, one look,
and I could face the cold, rough world again;
And with that treasure in my heart could brook
the wrath of devils and the scorn of men.

4 I hear thy voice; thou bidd'st me come and rest;
I come, I kneel, I clasp thy pierced feet;
thou bidd'st me take my place, a welcome guest
among thy saints, and of thy banquet eat.

5 My praise can only breathe itself in prayer,
my prayer can only lose itself in thee;
dwell thou forever in my heart, and there,
Lord, let me sup with thee; sup thou with me.

The hymn "Not Worthy, Lord, to Gather Up the Crumbs" is a deeply reflective and penitential hymn often associated with themes of humility, grace, and the Eucharist. It expresses the worshipper's unworthiness before God while emphasizing reliance on His mercy and grace.

Background:

• Author: The text was written by William Henry Draper (1855–1933), an Anglican clergyman and hymn writer.
• Tune: The hymn is traditionally set to the tune "BANGOR" by William Tans’ur, composed in 1734, though it may also be paired with other suitable reflective melodies.
• Written: The hymn text is inspired by the Gospel account of the Canaanite woman’s plea for mercy and healing for her daughter (Matthew 15:21–28).

Scriptural Inspiration:

The hymn is based on several biblical passages:

1. Matthew 15:27-28
   "And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters' table. Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt."

   • The hymn draws directly from the Canaanite woman’s faith-filled response to Jesus.

2. Luke 7:6-7
   "Lord, trouble not thyself: for I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my roof: Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto thee: but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed."

   • This passage reflects humility and trust in God’s power to act.

3. Revelation 3:20
   "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me."

   • The closing lines echo this promise of communion with Christ.