When bending over the brink of life

Verse 1

When, bending o'er the brink of life, My trembling soul shall stand, Waiting to pass death's awful flood, Great God, at thy command!

Verse 2

When weeping friends surround my bed, And close my sightless eyes; When shatter'd by the weight of years This broken body lies:

Verse 3

When ev'ry long-lov'd scene of life Stands ready to depart; When the last sigh that shakes the frame Shall rend this bursting heart:

Verse 4

O, thou great Source of joy supreme, Whose arm alone can save, Dispel the darkness that surrounds The entrance to the grave!

Verse 5

Lay thy supporting gentle hand Beneath my sinking head; And, with a ray of love divine, Illume my dying bed!