1 Gracious Savior, gentle Shepherd,
Children all are dear to Thee;
Gathered with Thine arms and carried
In Thy bosom may we be;
Sweetly, fondly, safely tended,
From all want and danger free.
2 Tender Shepherd, never leave us
From Thy fold to go astray;
By Thy look of love directed,
May we walk the narrow way.
Thus direct us and protect us,
Lest they fall an easy prey.
3 Cleanse our hearts from sinful folly
In the stream Thy love supplied,
Mingled stream of blood and water
Flowing from Thy wounded side;
And to heav'nly pastures lead us,
Where Thine own still waters glide.
4 Let Thy holy Word instruct us;
Guide us daily by its light;
Let Thy love and grace constrain us
To approve whate'er is right,
Take Thine easy yoke and wear it,
Strengthened with Thy heav'nly might.
5 Taught to lisp Thy holy praises
Which on earth Thy children sing,
Both with lips and hearts unfeigned,
May we thank-off'rings bring,
Then with all the saints in glory
Join to praise our Lord and King.