Jesus, Lover Of My Soul

1 Jesus, Lover of my soul,
Brother, friend and comrade dear,
No temptation can control
While Thy spirit hovers near.
All I treasure from Thee came,
Thy kind deeds all people bless.
Love triumphant is Thy aim,
Peace, good will and righteousness.

2 When my soul shall homeward fly,
When earth's dross shall disappear,
Then with plaintive joy I cry,
Thou alone could bring me here.
Other refuge have I none,
Heart and life I offer thee,
So thro' them I may atone
For misdeeds now haunting me.

3 Guided by Thy perfect life,
Growing with the love I feel,
Send me forth mid feudal strife
Brothers' wounds to bind and heal.
In fond service of my kind
Would I show my love of Thee,
Wandering, fainting sheep to find,
Bring sweet solace unto me.

4 Ever shield from force and wrong,
Bid my garish self depart,
For Thy service make me strong,
Sure of hand and pure of heart.
World is dreary when alone,
Thy full glory would I see,
Love and peace with Thee enthrone,
Winning all humanity.

5 Thou of life the fountain art,
E'en Thy touch restoreth me,
Write Thy message on my heart,
Song of hope and charity.
All the world is naught beside
What Thy presence with Ye bring,
At thy side may I abide,
Ever of Thy love to sing.

Amen.

Source: Advent Songs: a revision of old hymns to meet modern needs #8a