104.
The Prodigal Son.—Luke, xv, 11-24.
1 AFFLICTIONS, though they seem severe,
In mercy oft are sent ;
They stopp d the prodigal s career,
And forced him to repent.
2 Although he no relentings felt
Till he had spent his store,
His stubborn heart began to melt
When famine pinch d him sore.
3 " What have I gain d by sin," he said,
" But hunger, shame, and fear ?
My father s house abounds with bread
While I am starving here.
4 I ll go and tell him all I ve done,
And fall before his face ;
Unworthy to be call d his son,
I ll seek a servant s place."
5 His father saw him coming back,
He saw and ran and smiled,
And threw his arms around the neck
Of his rebellious child.
6 " Father, I ve sinn d but forgive !"
"I ve heard enough," he said ;
" Rejoice, my house, my son s alive
For whom I mourn d as dead.
7 " Now let the fatted calf be slain,
And spread the news around :
My son was dead, but lives again,
Was lost, but now is found.
8 Tis thus the Lord his love reveals
To call poor sinners home ;
More than a father s love he feels.
And welcomes all that come.
