Ever would I fain be reading

Verse 1

Ever would I fain be reading In the ancient holy Book, Of my Savior’s gentle pleading, Truth in every word and look.

Verse 2

How when children came He blessed them, Suffered no man to reprove, Took them in His arms, and pressed them To His heart with words of love.

Verse 3

How to all the sick and tearful Help was ever gladly shown; How He sought the poor and fearful, Called them brothers and His own.

Verse 4

How no contrite soul e’er sought Him, And was bidden to depart, How with gentle words He taught him, Took the death from out his heart.

Verse 5

Still I read the ancient story, And my joy is ever new, How for us He left His glory, How He still is kind and true.

Verse 6

How the flock He gently leadeth Whom His Father gave Him here; How His arms He widely spreadeth To His heart to draw us near.

Verse 7

Let me kneel, my Lord, before Thee, Let my heart in tears o’erflow, Melted by Thy love adore Thee, Blest in Thee ’mid joy or woe!