Poems (Stephens)/The prodigal
For works with similar titles, see The Prodigal.
THE PRODIGAL.
I wasted health when young and strong,
For life was fair and promised length;
I toiled, enjoyed with all my strength,
And never asked it right or wrong.
For life was fair and promised length;
I toiled, enjoyed with all my strength,
And never asked it right or wrong.
I wasted time in seeking place,
And scorned each homely duty done,
Nor felt the days glide one by one,
And leave me with no added grace.
And scorned each homely duty done,
Nor felt the days glide one by one,
And leave me with no added grace.
I wasted love, for vainest things
Were oft enthroned within my heart,
Until they made of life a part,
And then alas! took airy wings.
Were oft enthroned within my heart,
Until they made of life a part,
And then alas! took airy wings.
And now when sick, alone and old,
I come, O gracious God, to thee;
And thou wilt welcome such as me,
And gather me within thy fold.
I come, O gracious God, to thee;
And thou wilt welcome such as me,
And gather me within thy fold.