FATHER of lights, from Thee, descends,
     Each good, and perfect gift;
Then hear us, while our thankful hearts,
     In songs of praise, we lift;

We praise Thee, Maker, that Thou, first,
     Didst form us, from the clay;
And gav'st us souls, to love Thy name,
     To worship, and obey.

We praise Thee, that the souls Thou gav'st,
     Thou, still, in life dost hold:
Preserver, noon would fade tonight,
     Ere half Thy love, were told!

We praise Thee, Saviour, that Thou didst
     Our souls, from death release,
And, with Thine own atoning blood,
     Procure us, endless peace.

Maker, Preserver, Saviour, God!
     What varied thanks we owe
To Thee, howe'er addressed; from whom,
     Such varied blessings flow:

To Thee, who on a darken'd world,
     Celestial light, hast pour'd;
And told of heav'n, and taught the way,
     In Thy most holy Word.

Wide as the blaze of noon, is spread,
     Spread Thou, that Word abroad:
We ask it, Saviour, in Thy name;
     Maker, Preserver, God.

Project Canterbury