Page:Olney Hymns - 1840.djvu/157

BOOK I. 1 AFFLICTIONS, though they seem severe, In mercy oft are sent ; They stopp d the prodigal s career, And forced him to repent.

2 Although he no relentings felt Till he had spent his store, His stubborn heart began to melt When famine pinch d him sore.

3 &quot; What have I gain d by sin,&quot; he said, &quot; But hunger, shame, and fear ? My father s house abounds with bread While I am starving here.

4 I ll go and tell him all I ve done, And fall before his face ; Unworthy to be call d his son, I ll seek a servant s place.&quot;

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

6 &quot; Father, I ve sinn d but forgive !&quot; &quot;I ve heard enough,&quot; he said ; &quot; Rejoice, my house, my son s alive For whom I mourn d as dead.

7 &quot; 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.

8 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. Rh