Poetry

by Arthur Bowman

1. Gracious God, our Lord and sure defender
We sing your name, we worship and adore.
From your word and through this living water,
Lead us safely to the kingdom’s shore.

May the joy of sweet baptismal blessing
Ever be our strength and hope, dear Lord.
Now each day the cross of Christ possessing
On our brows a sign of sure accord.

2. Father God, your hands took earth and made us
With your breath you breathed us into life.
Home and family freely from your favor
Did your loving heart to us provide.

For the earth so wondrously created
Joyous songs of praise we sing to you.
Lead us, Lord, that we may tend and nourish
Our good home, your gift of grace anew.

3. Jesus God, you came to live among us
Heal the sick and sinner to redeem.
From the waters of the river Jordan
Setting forth, a brightly shining beam.

Now your cross is lifted high above us
And you call, “Come follow by my grace.”
Teach us, Jesus, so to be your servants
Loving kindly all the human race.

4. Holy Spirit God, come rest upon us
Give us strength to daily do your will.
In our paths of service be thou near us
Holy fire, with love our hearts instill.

Thank you, God, for gifts so freely given
Brightly burn and set our spirits free.
Lead us from these sweet baptismal waters
Lights to shine for all the world to see.

Tune: Day By Day Thy Mercies Lord Attend Me