A. L. Waring
FATHER, I know that all my life
Is portioned out for me,
The changes that will surely come
I do not fear to see;
I ask Thee for a present mind,
Intent on pleasing Thee.
2
I ask Thee for a thoughtful love,
Through constant watching wise,
To meet the glad with joyful smiles,
And wipe the weeping eyes;
A heart at leisure from itself,
To soothe and sympathize.
3
I would not have the restless will
That hurries to and fro.
That seeks for some great thing to do,
Or secret thing to know;
I would be treated as a child,
And guided where I go.
4
Wherever in the world I am,
In whatsoe’er estate,
I have a fellowship with hearts
To keep and cultivate;
A work of lowly love to do
For Him on whom I wait.
5
I ask Thee for the daily strength,
To none that ask denied;
A mind to blend with outward life,
While keeping at Thy side;
Content to fill a little space,
If Thou be glorified.
6
In service which Thy love appoints
There are no bonds for me;
My secret heart is taught the truth
That makes Thy children free:
A life of self-renouncing love
Is one of liberty.