Afflictions, Though They Seem Severe


 * Afflictions, though they seem severe;
 * In mercy oft are sent;
 * They stopped the prodigal’s career,
 * And forced him to repent.


 * Although he no relentings felt
 * Till he had spent his store;
 * His stubborn heart began to melt
 * When famine pinched him sore.


 * “What have I gained by sin, he said,
 * But hunger, shame, and fear;
 * My father’s house abounds with bread,
 * While I am starving here.


 * I’ll go, and tell him all I’ve done,
 * And fall before his face
 * Unworthy to be called his son,
 * I’ll seek a servant’s place.”


 * His father saw him coming back,
 * He saw, and ran, and smiled;
 * And threw his arms around the neck
 * Of his rebellious child.


 * “Father, I’ve sinned—but O forgive!”
 * I’ve heard enough, he said,
 * Rejoice my house, my son’s alive,
 * For whom I mourned as dead.


 * Now let the fatted calf be slain,
 * And spread the news around;
 * My son was dead, but lives again,
 * Was lost, but now is found.


 * ’Tis thus the Lord His love reveals,
 * To call poor sinners home;
 * More than a father’s love He feels,
 * And welcomes all that come.