Hymnal: Voices of Praise #103 (1883) Topics: Apostles and Saints Lyrics: 1 The Friend of little children
We ever call to mind,
That Friend so true and gentle,
That Friend so wondrous kind,
That Friend of youths and maidens,
Of travellers by sea,
And wand'rers over this world
Wherever they may be.
2 We know the guardian Angels'
Blest work and sweet employ
Is aye to keep from evil,
And fill with holy joy;
The Saints all gone before us
Must love and watch us still,
And do for each redeemed one
According to God's will.
3 But chief, they lead us onward,
And heavenward point the way
To every earth-born wand'rer,
Lest he should go astray;
They hold on high Christ's banner,
With Holy Cross and shield,
And bid us all, full bravely,
Take now the battle-field.
4 And then, above us shining,
They show the golden Crown,
The palm branch and the lily,
The streets with roses strown,
The harping of the victors
Upon the sea of glass;
The gates for those all open
Who into glory pass.
5 Then to the throne of Jesus,
They lead our trembling feet,
Until, with Him safe sheltered,
We rest in pastures sweet;
The pastures green of Eden
Above the starry skies,
The waters of the sheep-fold
All still in Paradise.
6 O Shepherd dear, we thank Thee
For all Thy Saints so blest,
Who lead us ever onward
To our dear Home of rest;
O never, never leave us,
But keep us in the way,
Until at last we see Thee,
In everlasting Day.
Amen. Languages: English Tune Title: CRAMER
The Friend of little children