I am outside the fold

1 The gentle Shepherd wandered at evening with his flock,
In valleys that were fertile, fresh, and fair;
I strayed upon the hillside amid the stone and rock,
In hopes of finding richer dainties there.

Now I’m outside!
Now I’m outside!
All the rest are safely folded,
While I am outside.

2 The sun sank low, and lower, but still I wandered on,
Unmindful of the gentle voice that called;
I tho’t to turn and follow before the light was gone,
And with the rest to enter safe the fold.

Now I’m outside!
Now I’m outside!
All the rest are safely folded,
While I am outside.

3 But darkness settled quickly, and ere I was aware
How very wild and rough the way had grown,
I could not see the Shepherd; his voice I could not hear;
And I was left to wander on alone.

Now I’m outside!
Now I’m outside!
All the rest are safely folded,
While I am outside.

4 Oh, wand’rer, whom the Savior in mercy calls today,
Obey his voice and follow near his side,
Before the earth-born darkness his form shall hide away;
And with his sheep infolded safe abide.

Tho’ you’re outside,
Tho’ you’re outside,
Still the loving Shepherd’s seeking
To bring you inside!

Source: United Praise: for use in Sunday Schools, Young People's Societies and other Church Services #36

• MIDI file from United Praise: for use in Sunday Schools, Young People's Societies and other Church Services #36