423. Gracious Saviour, gentle Shepherd

Gracious Saviour, gentle Shepherd,

Little ones are dear to Thee;

Gathered with Thine arms, and carried

In Thy bosom may we be;

Sweetly, fondly, safely tended,

From all want and danger free.

Tender Shepherd, never leave us

From Thy fold to go astray;

By Thy look of love directed,

May we walk the narrow way;

Thus direct us and protect us,

Lest we fall an easy prey.

Cleanse our hearts from sinful folly

In tbe stream Thy love supplied,

Ming-led stream of Blood and Water

Flowing from Thy wounded Side:

And to heavenly pastures lead us

Where Thine own still waters glide.

Let Thy holy Word instruct us;

Till our minds with heavenly light;

Let Thy love and grace constrain us

To approve whate'er is right,

Take Thine easy yoke, and wear it,

And to prove Thy burden light.

Taught to lisp the holy praises

Which on earth Thy children sing,

Both with lips and hearts unfeigned

May we our thank-offerings bring;

Then with all the saints in glory

Join to praise our Lord the King.