As once for Jonah, so the Lord

Verse 1

As once for Jonah, so for me, To soothe and cheer my mournful hours, Prepared for me a leafy tree; Cool was its shade, and sweet its flow'rs.

Verse 2

To prize his gift was surely right, But through the folly of my heart, It hid the Giver from my sight, And soon my joy was changed to smart.

Verse 3

While I admired its beauteous form, Its pleasant shade, and grateful fruit, The Lord, displeased, sent forth a worm, Unseen, to prey upon the root.

Verse 4

Though trembling when I saw it fade, Restrained my tongue from bursting free; My folly I confessed, and prayed, Forgive my sin and spare my tree.

Verse 5

His wondrous love can ne’er be told; He heard me and relieved my pain, Yet no more did those leaves unfold, Nor did the tree revive again.

Verse 6

Now, Lord, the tree is mine no more, ’Tis thine, who only could it raise; The idol of my heart no more, Henceforth shall give way to thy praise.