Son of God! thy people's shield!

Prayer for the Lord's promised presence by John Newton


 * Son of God! thy people's shield!
 * Must we still thine absence mourn?
 * Let thy promise be fulfilled,
 * Thou hast said, "I will return!"


 * Gracious Leader now appear,
 * Shine upon us with thy light!
 * Like the spring, when thou art near,
 * Days and suns are doubly bright.


 * As a mother counts the days
 * Till her absent son she see;
 * Longs and watches, weeps and prays,
 * So our spirits long for thee.


 * Come, and let us feel thee nigh,
 * Then thy sheep shall feed in peace;
 * Plenty bless us from on high,
 * Evil from amongst us cease.


 * With thy love, and voice, and aid,
 * Thou canst every care assuage;
 * Then we shall not be afraid,
 * Though the world and Satan rage.


 * Thus each day for thee we'll spend,
 * While our callings we pursue;
 * And the thoughts of such a friend
 * Shall each night our joy renew.


 * Let thy light be ne'er withdrawn,
 * Golden days afford us long!
 * Thus we pray at early dawn,
 * This shall be our evening song.