Poems (Dodd)/Prayer of the Penitent
PRAYER OF THE PENITENT.
Lord, before thee lowly kneeling, Penitent my vows I pay;Long on broken idols leaning, I have found no rest or stay: I have wandered, Wandered from thy fold away.
Like the dove with pinions weary, O'er the troubled waves I flee,Round me roll the waters dreary, May thy love my refuge be. I am weary, Let me find repose in thee.
I have all too fondly treasured, Sinful hopes, and wishes vain,Let thy grace, and love unmeasured, Cleanse my soul from every stain: Oh, receive me! Take me in thine arms again!
If by thee, O God, forsaken, All my hope is lost indeed;Let my tears compassion waken, Hear me while for help I plead: Oh, be near me! Save me in mine hour of need!
O'er the grave of buried blessings, Standing like a blighted tree,Those who shared my fond caressings, Near me now no more I see. I am wretched; Father, thus I come to thee.
Lord, for mercy I implore thee! Thou canst dry my bitter tears:Trembling I appear before thee, Bowed with penitence and years: Look upon me! Take away my doubts and fears.
Life-long sins are all appearing, Round me surging like a sea;But thy word, my spirit cheering, Offers peace, and pardon free. I have suffered, Send "the Comforter" to me.