At Parting

I

As the sun’s enliv’ning eye
Shines on every place the same;
So the Lord is always nigh
To the souls that love his name.

II

When they move at duty’s call,
He is with them by the way;
He is ever near them all,
Those who go, and those who stay.

III

From his holy mercy-seat
Nothing can their souls confine;
Still in spirit they may meet,
And in sweet communion join.

IV

For a season call’d to part,
Let us then ourselves commend
To the gracious eye and heart
Of our ever-present Friend.

V

Jesus, hear our humble pray’r!
Tender Shepherd of thy sheep,
Let thy mercy and thy care
All our souls in safety keep.

VI

In thy strength may we be strong,
Sweeten every cross and pain;
Give us, if we live, ere long,
Here to meet in peace again.

VII

Then if thou thy help afford,
Ebenezers shall be rear’d;
And our souls shall praise the Lord,
Who our poor petitions heard.