FROM THE LIBRARY OF REV. LOUIS FITZGERALD BENSON. D. D. BEQUEATHED BY HIM TO THE LIBRARY OF PRINCETON THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY bSfto *&mz SONGS = g^^ Songs for Divine Services. For all that is of earth must fade, And man is but a fleeting shade, If to the Dead he gives his heart, Forgetful of his living part. On thee alone let all my joys be founded ; O Lord, unto my call incline thine ear, That I with help and comfort be surrounded. For, lo ! I am a stranger with thee here ; A traveller o'er this life's main Of grief and trouble, toil and pain, Of sorrow, labor, woe and care ; O, make me hope in thee fore'er 1 9. Solace in Distress. (Psalm 42.) Tell me, my soul, what aileth thee ? Why on thy hopes this blight ? O heart, my heart, what grieveth thee? Wherefore this tongueless fright? To God, thy Father, flee, On him, on him rely! He will deliver thee, Rely! rely! My Father ! hear my anxious cry ; So direful is my dole ! Why did thy love forget me, why? O come to bless my soul ! To God, thy Father, flee, On him alone rely ! He will deliver thee, | 2 Rely! rely! A 6 Songs for Divine Services. f 10. Prayer for Pardon. (Psalm 51.) Lord, hear me in thy tender grace, Accept thy servant's meek confessions ; I have my guilt before my face, I cannot gainsay my transgressions. — Lord, cleanse me, cleanse me from my sin, That I in gladness be thy servant ; Give me a guileless heart within, Renew my spirit firm and fervent. 11. Lord, be gracious. (Psalm 67.) O Lord, be gracious unto us, And with thy blessing speed us, Let shine thy face illustrious; To life eternal lead us. That we may heed thy ways with awe, And follow e'er thy teaching, Thus the salvation of thy Law To all the nations preaching. All nations shall, O Lord, confess Thy never-ending glory, Acknowledging thy righteousness, With joy appear before thee. Yea, righteously thou governest And judgest every nation, Let us fore'er securely rest, O Lord, in thy salvation ! * Songs for Divine Services. 7 * Joy in the Sanctuary. I Psalm 84.) How goodly are thy habitations ! My soul desired — it yearned to see, O Lord of Hosts, these holy stations, The dwellings of thy majesty. My body and my soul now laud The ever living, bounteous God. Lo, as the sparrow finds a building, And as the swallow rears a nest, From storms her tender offspring shielding, So I fly to thine altars blest. Blest he who in thy house may dwell, Allowed alway thy praise to tell. Thou art a shield, a sun, emitting Bright rays of glory and of grace, With joy and happiness outfitting All those that walk before thy face. O Lord of Hosts, throned in the skies, How blest he who on thee relies ! 13. Thanksgiving and Praise, (Psalm 100.) Attune God's praise, serve him with joy all earth, Come all before his face with holy mirth ! Acknowledge ye, that we by him are bred, His sheep we are, the flock he e'er has fed. O, enter then his gates with grateful song, And move with praises all his courts along; Give thanks to him to whom all praise is due, For he is ever gracious, ever true. ! 8 Songs for Divine Services. f| 14 Up to the Mountains. (Psalm 121.) I lift mine eyes up to the mountains, sighing, " Is there no help unto me given ?" My help springs from a fountain never drying, From him who made the earth and heaven! Behold, he slumbers ne'er, he sleepeth ne'er, Who watches Israel with loving care. 15. No Blessing without God. (Psalm 127.) If God build not the house, in vain The builders spend their toil and pain ; If God shield not the town, in vain The watchmen from night's sleep abstain. In vain ye rise with morning's light, And sit up late, to eat by night The bread of care. — He granteth rest To those who with his grace are blest. 16. With God there is Forgiveness. (Psalm 130.) Out of the depths, in pain and care, I send my cry up unto thee ; Incline thine ear and hear my prayer, My earnest suit, Lord, answer me. If thou shouldst mark the trace of sin, Lord, who could hope thy grace to win ? But, lo, from thee is pardon given, That man may dare look up to heaven. I hope in thee, my God. — My heart In yearning would for heaven start. My soul looks out for thee in sorrow, More than the watchman for the morrow. — |»4&: Songs for Divine Services. 1 Hope, Israel ! Wherever sailing, Make him the compass of thy hope ; With him is mercy never-failing, And redemption in full scope. The Lord of peace — he will efface The sins of Israel, in his grace. 17. Praise of Concord. (Psalm 133.) How blest the sight, the joy how sweet, When brothers joined with brothers meet, A mutual loving band ! How sweet the liquid fragrance, shed On Aaron's consecrated head, From his own brother's hand, When both were blessing, both were blest ! — Sweet as the dews from Hermon's breast On Zion's hills descend; Her hills has God with blessings crowned, There promised grace that knows no bound, And life that ne'er shall end. 18. Evening Prayer. (Psalm 134.) Come, bless ye the Lord, His servants, ye all Who in his house Stand, with prayers and vows, At evening's solemn call. Uplift ye your hands toward his abode, And sing the praise of God. The Lord who has made both heaven and earth, Will bless thee from Zion with holy mirth. 10 Songs for Divine Services. 19. God, the Shield of Israel. (Psalm 129.) Had not the Lord stood by my side, When men against me rose : I never, never could abide The wrath of all my foes. As furious billows did they roll, And roar to sweep away my soul. Blest be the Lord, for he conferred On me his gracious care ; I have escaped them, as a bird That flies the fowler's snare. The snare is broke, we are set free,— Forever, Lord, I'll hope in thee. :O^K In deep Distress. (Psalm 143.) O Lord, in care I meet thee ; Behold my deep distress ! And let my prayer entreat thee In thy great faithfulness. O, bid not thy poor servant Before thy court appear ; No man, however fervent, Can in thy sight be clear. Sin hath destroyed my heaven, The peace within my breast ; With pangs my heart is riven, My spirit is depressed. •S Songs for Divine Services. 11 ) \i My soul within me fainteth, And wrings with grievous smart, The night of anguish painteth Dark shadows in my heart. My Father, I now call thee ; O come, deliver me ! From passions that enthrall me To thee alone I flee. Teach thou me in thy kindness, To serve thee all my days ; Without .thee I'm in blindness ; Lord, light me with thy rays ! 21. Praise Him. (Psalm 150.) Praise him who reigneth o'er us, Praise him in songs sonorous, Joined with high heaven's chorus, Praise him whose deeds are wondrous, Whose greatness unexcelled ; Loud praise his might, the infinite ! — Praise him with psalteries, praise him with trumpets, Praise him with chimes wide ringing, With harps and with timbrels, With chords and with organs, Shouting to the skies. Praise him who reigneth o'er us, Praise him in songs sonorous, Joined with high heaven's chorus, Praise him whose deeds are wondrous, Whose greatness unexcelled ! Hallelujah. 1 12 Songs for Divine Services. & __ ; II. PRAISES AND THANKSGIVINGS. 22. God in the Heaven and in the Heart. Thou Only One, enthroned in heavens above, My light, my trust, my staff, my stay, — Thou rul'st o'er life and death. Thou Only One, in thy abundant love, Thou deign'st to dwell in hearts of clay,— Thine be my latest breath ! 23. With Praises come before Him. With praises come before him, Extol the God of might ; The heavenly choirs adore him, To him shout Day and Night. Him praises all creation, All beings spread his fame; O, Jacob's Congregation, Sing him with loud acclaim. The Lord is God ! To him cling, For perfect is his way, The Lord is God ! To him sing, My soul, for e'er and aye ! 24. Hallelujah ! Sing in Chorus. Hallelujah ! Sing in chorus, To his honor hymns sonorous; In his courts with mirth appear. Bring him offerings, all ye mortals, Come with joy into his portals, Bring him thanks, from far and near ! i ti» — - °ies=-r3 Songs for Divine Services. 13 Should we not with anthems sing him, And our lips' oblations bring him, Who sustains the world he framed ? Children, bow to him, be humble ! Though he sees us fail and stumble, Yet, his children are we named. Come, draw near him, mortal creature ! Ne'er despond ! Though frail thy nature, God is gracious, great his love. Think the thought, so awe-inspiring ! — Feel the joy, to bring untiring Thanks to God enthroned above ! 25, Sing with Joy. Sing with joy the God of grace, Praise him in his dwelling-place ! Grace he has bestowed upon us, Leading us in every age, To the goal his staff has shown us, Stilling storms' and billows' rage. Sing the wonders he has done us ! Sing with joy the God of grace, . In his dwelling-place ! Se*- 26. Praise his Greatness. Praise his greatness, praise his power, Let your thanks to heaven tower, With triumphant songs adore him, Come with thankful hearts before him His great Name adore For evermore. 14 Songs for Divine Services. Praise the Ruler of all powers, Praise his goodness, for he showers On us mercies none can measure. Let your hearts breathe hallowed pleasure ! His great Name adore For evermore. Amen. --<&&m 27. The Wonders of Creation. When on thy power I meditate, And see thy wisdom's traces, When I reflect thy love how great, That all mankind embraces : O Lord, I linger, and I gaze, And find no words to sing thy praise. Where'er I turn, my eyes detect New wonders of creation ; The skies with sheeny splendors decked, Give thee, O Lord, ovation. O God of might and majesty, Thy name is bright eternally ! 28. From Far and Near. Hallelujah ! O sing the Lord in holy fear, Extol the Lord from far and near, In every age and time ! From North to South, from East to West, His name be praised, his name be blest, In every land and clime ! Hallelujah ! Who durst with God, our Lord, compare ? A Savior in distress and care, From age to age the same. He lends the pious strength and trust, While wicked arms are crushed to dust, The Eternal is his name. Hallelujah ! Amen. Songs for Divine Services. 15 29. Loud through Creation. Loud through creation sounds The glory of our God, And, like a wave, redounds His praise in his abode. Come, let us strike the harp and sing praise in accord, To the Lord, to the Lord. Vain is the scoff of ruthless nations Who Israel oppose, We bring our God ovations, In spite of threats, in sight of foes. Him who ne'er endeth, Whom no mind comprehendeth, Him sing, proclaim his grace, Here in his dwelling-place ! Accord Psalteries to the Lord. ; ,- 30. I will praise thee. Thou art my Father, I will praise thee, Thy love shall claim my sweetest song; To happiness thou didst upraise me, Thine be my harp, thine be my tongue. To praise thy power that endeth never, To praise thy wisdom I'll endeavor. I dedicate my song to thee, Thine be my lyre, my psaltery ! When I awake at early dawn, My soul soars up to thee above ; When night descends on field and lawn, My heart exalts thee, thrilled with love. O, what delight in lays sonorous To blend my voice with Nature's chorus! I dedicate my song to thee. Thine be my lyre, my psaltery ! 16 Songs for Divine Services. In thee all my affections gather, To live in thee, O Lord, I yearn ; On wings of song, my Source, my Father, I fain would unto thee return. My yearning shall with powers gift me Unto thy heavens to uplift me. I dedicate my lyre to thee, Thine be my harp, my psaltery ! 31. Thy Grace, Father. When I behold thy grace, O Father, Each morning with the light renewed; My throbbing heart longs to approach thee With words of love and gratitude Thou guard'st me with a father's cares ; Thy love w r ith all my frailties bears. How many wonders of thy kindness In my own life may I descry ! Thy light is shed on all my footsteps, Thy love looks on me from on high. O joy ! I am of birth divine, My spirit is a part of thine ! 32. God's Truth. Arise, my soul, and wing thee Up to thy God above ; Give praise, and tell how kingly He pours on thee his love ! Display with grateful pleasure His truth in pious rhyme; Thy psaltery's glad measure Shall praise the Most Sublime. t^^fc: Songs for Divine Services. To praise him, it behooves thee, Whatever be thy dole ; Thy life is his, he loves thee; Forget it not, my soul ! 33. Praise, Israel. Praise, Israel, the Lord whose might Is manifest in story, In saving thee he had delight, Shout, Israel, his glory. In grateful lays Exalt his ways ; On virtue's path he guides us, And in his mercy hides us. 34. Praise ye the Lord. Praise ye the Lord in his abode most holy, Sing him songs in the stronghold of his might. As thou at all times didst shower On thy works thy gifts of grace, So will ne'er thy love and power Cease to lead the human race. For thy kindness ever true With each morning shines anew. 35. Great is the Lord! Great is the Lord ! He knows our weakness, And is with us in all our ways. Good is the Lord ! My soul, in meekness, Give to thy Father's love due praise. Praised be the Lord ! 18 Songs for Divine Services. 36. The God of Love. My bosom is thine altar, Pure love my sacrifice, The thanks, my lips are telling, With joy to thee arise. Accept, O Lord, my offering, My prayer to thee above. Nigh art thou to thy fearers, Thou art a God of love ! Hallelujah ! Bring, my heart, bring him ovation, Tell his love with each pulsation ! Hallelujah ! How often hast thou brightened With joys my path of life, So wilt thou ever grant me To conquer in each strife. Into thy hand, Almighty, Resigning mine estate, I pray in meekness, " Rule thou, Lord, as thou wilt my fate." Hallelujah ! Give the God of love due praises, When he lowers, when he raises. Hallelujah! 1 37. The Lord is God. The Lord is God, the universe proclaims him, Whate'er thou seest, whate'er thou hearest, names him. O, bend to him in awe ! The Lord is God, He is a gracious God. « %*m> - ' °§§i^)? * Songs for Divine Services. 19 . The Lord is God, he unto us hath given The light of mind, the Law revealed from heaven ; We bow to him with thanks. The Lord is God, He is a gracious God. <^ 38. Great is the Lor J. Great is the Lord, and none beside ; To him sing, all who fear him ! Who is like him ? who may abide His light, and who come near him ? The Lord is great, His name is great, Wide open is his mercy-gate. How blest all who revere him ! Sing to the Lord. Sing to the Lord a joyful strain ! He is our God, none else ! In clouds of mystery he dwells, The worlds are his domain. Great is his name ! He wills — 'tis wrought, Lo, there in pride it stands, And when his word of might commands, Soon all is turned to naught. 'b' He is the Love; in him rejoice ; His choice is thine own best ; His deeds are altogether blest, $ And truthful is his voice. |[ % 20 Songs for Divine Services. He reigns on earth ! He hears thee cry, And makes thy bosom still ; If straight thy way, if good thy will, Press on ! the Lord is nigh. Sing to the Lord a joyful strain ! He is our God, none else ! In clouds of mystery he dwells, The worlds are his domain. Great is his name forevermore. — Amen. 40. Adonai, Praise and Honor. Adonai, praise and honor Be offered to thy name, Until this hall formed by thy hand Turn unto dust at thy command, Shall in halls we've founded The " Holy " be sounded. Hallelujah. 41. Almighty God. Almighty God, we sing thy praise, Beneficent, we laud thy ways. The earth is thy majestic altar, The heavens are thy glory's psalter. All living hope in thee, O Lord, All living sing, Hallelujah ! 42. Praise and Glory. Praise give and glory unto our God ; For he is all-gracious ; Great above earth and heaven Is his loving-kindness. Songs for Divine Services. 21 2 . — * Praise give and glory unto our God ! Serve ye the Lord with joy and gladness, Come ye with psalms before his presence. Praise give and glory unto our God ! 43. Blessed be the Lord. Bless'd be the Lord ! In gladness I will sing him, And hymns of thanks in joyful chorus bring him; In unison with all that walk before him, I will adore him. Majestic are the works he hath created, They tell his might, with holy mirth elated ; They are to me a source of holy pleasure, Beyond all measure. A book of wisdom, Lord, is thy creation, I'll read in it with awe and admiration ; Enlighten me, and let my reason choose thee, My heart not lose thee. 44. We praise thee. We praise thee, Lord, who mad'st the world thy tent; To thee on wings of song my soul is soaring ; O thou, residing in the firmament, To thee we bow in awe, thy grace imploring. Who is like thee, so excellent in might ? Who is like thee in glory, truth and splendor ? The heavens are thy throne, thy garb is light, Sun, moon and stars to thee their homage render. Yet with a father's love thou look'st on earth, To mete thy mercies out to all thy creatures ; From thee all gifts, all joys of life spring forth, & And man hast thou endowed with heavenly features. $ & _4 n 22 Songs for Divine Services. 45. Holy art thou, God. Holy art thou, God, Savior from affliction's flood, Thine is the might; The heavens are thy tent of light. — At thy command, In pride and resplendence all things stand, To delight man's wondering sight ; Lord, our God, thy name is holy ! 46. The Heavens proclaim. The heavens proclaim their Master's glory, Their voices bear his fame abroad ; Him praise the lands, him laud the oceans, Hear man, with awe, the voice of God ! Who guides the numberless hosts of heaven ? Who wakes the Sun from nightly rest ? He goeth forth like a valiant hero, To run his race from East to West. Come, man, and view the wonders of nature To thine astounded sight unfurled, See power and wisdom swaying their scepter, — Proclaim they not the God of the world ? He is thy Maker, he is the mercy, And he is thy salvation's fount ; Love him, love him in thy heart's profoundness, Among his chosen ever count. 47. The Heavens teach. The heavens teach, O Lord, thy praises, The earth is witness of thy might, The voice which all creation raises, If Resounds by day, is heard by night. 1^^ Songs for Divine Services. 23 Where'er I turn my gaze astounded, I see a father's watching love ; Thus by thy witnesses surrounded, I send my praise to thee above. 48. Nature's Realm. Lord, thy greatness and thy power, Are in Nature's realm revealed, Countless are thy gifts that shower Down on forest as on field. Therefore, songs of praise wide-sounding, Rise from every lip beneath, Echoes of thy grace, rebounding From the hearts of all that breathe. 49. Who form'st the Light. Who form'st the light, mak'st everything, Thou fount of all salvation, On every morn, O holy King, Renewing thy creation — As hosts of fervent angels praise Thine excellence, thy splendor, We sing thee for these morning rays,- For all thy mercies tender. 50. Golden Beams. The sun each morning greets With golden beams the ocean, And every wave he meets Reflects the glistening motion. # riMS*£ 24 Songs for Divine Services. Thine eye, Lord, on me dwells, My heart waves like the ocean, Reflects thy look and tells Thy grace in joy's emotion. 51. All proclaim the Lord. Lord, all proclaim thy name : — \ The sun above that glows, The lightning's flashing flame, The golden blooming rose, The fowl with tinges tender — What glitters, gleams and glows, Reflects, O Lord, thy splendor. The sun in my heart glows, In me the warbler sings, In me the flower blows. What up to heaven rings, What down from heaven blazes, — My heart feels it and grows And swells in grateful praises. 52. A Hallelujah. The Lord, the Lord, the Ruler, Almighty, The King is he alone, Creation is his throne ; He reigns, besides him none. The Lord shall reign for ever and ever. Lord of all, and King of kings, Thou rulest ever and ever! |l Hallelujah. Songs for Divine Services. 25 ]E 53. Kedushah of Moses Ib'n Ezra. By angels in heaven The Lord is given Glory and fame. Celestial hosts Stand on their posts To praise his name. Above, beneath, Lo, all that breathe, With awe proclaim, " Holy, holy, holy Is the Lord of Hosts." With fear impressed, They never rest To sing his might; The Seraphim Give praise to him, With flashing light The earthly choirs With sacred fires, Shout to his height, * Holy, holy, holy Is the Lord of Hosts." Around his throne, His servants own His power in fear. With thunder's voice They all rejoice In the heavenly sphere. The heavens round Repeat the sound From far and near: 11 " Holy, holy, holy Is the Lord of Hosts!" '^^^0= - — ^ •:■ Jfc* ®** 26 Songs for Divine Services. 54. Where shall I find thee ? (After the Hebrew of Jnda Halevi.) O Lord, where shall 1 find thee, Whose seat no eye espies? And where, O Lord, not find thee, Whose throne is earth and skies? Who dwell'st in hearts that fear thee, To worlds thou sett'st a bar ; Thou shield of all who're near thee, And staff of those afar ! O thou 'mong Cherubs dwelling, Enthroned in ether's light, All praises they are telling Can never reach thy height. And yet, midst sons of earth, here, Should God dwell? Daring thought! A dream how high aspiring Of man who is like naught ! Yet, where thy praise resoundeth, Thy majesty is near, From heaven to earth reboundeth The song of holy fear. 55. The Lord of all. The Lord of all was sovereign King, Ere aught that is was moulded ; Now that all nature stands in pride, The worlds display his kingdom. And he is one, besides him none, With none he shares his glory ; Has no beginning and no end, His are the power and kingdom. it Songs for Divine Services. 27 % He is my God, my Savior 'he, My Rock, my Stay in anguish; He is my refuge and my flag, My cup, my share forever. Unto his hand I trust my soul, When sleeping, when awaking, And with my soul my body's frame; He is with me, I fear no evil. 56. The Doctrines of Faith. Attune the song of holy truth ! God is; bow down, old age and youth ! And he is One ! —Raise up your hands ! His unity — who understands ? Spiritual and figureless, Unequalled he in holiness! All things through him exist alone, But he himself hath ne'er begun. On earth, in heaven, everything Tells, he is the Almighty King. Prophetic truth he did inspire Into the men of sacred fire. He made his grace on Moses shine; No prophet was like him divine. 1 Songs for Divine Services. Through him, trie Shepherd, true and tried, He gave the Law as Judah's guide. Let systems change and doctrines fall, The Law of God surviveth all. To him is known the thought of the heart, The end of things, ere yet they start. What through thy deeds thou here may'st earn, Thy judge will on thy head return. Redemption comes, all troubles end Of those who on his help depend. The night of death he turns to day ; Blest be his name fore'er and aye ! -'&mr Songs for Divine Services. 29 1 I III. SOLACE AND HOPE. 57. What fear' st thou? What fear'st thou ? God rules earth and skies, He knows all thy affairs. What even men as small despise, Escapeth not his cares. His eyes — they sound Thy heart's profound ; He knows thy wishes, knows what grieves thee, He stills thy anguish and relieves thee. 58. Ne'er despond! Ne'er despond ! Though clouds may hover, Threat'ning to obscure thy day ; Hands unseen protecting cover Thee, O feeble son of clay! Ne'er despond ! Though sorrows cumber With their weighty load thy heart ; Yet, thou know'st there comes a slumber; And all troubles will depart. Ne'er despond ! Though soon life's flower Fade, and dimness cloud thy eye, Death hath over thee no power, What is Godlike cannot die. Songs for Divine Services. 59. Why sorrow'st thou ? Tell, my soul, why sorrow'st thou? Why this trembling fear within ? Lives there not a God above us, Watching o'er us day and night ? Know'st thou not that he doth love us, Love us ever, though he smite ? Look on high, God is nigh ; Heavenward raise, Man, thy gaze ! Every tear that dews thy cheek, Counteth he who loves the meek. Tell, my soul, why sorrow'st thou ? Why this trembling fear within ? Is, then, thy bereavement endless ? Art thou in this world alone ? Lov'st thou nothing? Art thou friendless? Is there naught to call thine own ? God is thine, Do not pine ! All thy days Walk his ways, For his faith shall ne'er decay, Ne'er his fount of love betray. 60. Why criest thou? Why criest thou, my heart, in sorrow? Why criest thou and sigh'st "Alas! O Lord my God, when comes the morrow? When will that night, that long night pass? That marsh-light glittering from afar, When will it prove a truthful star ?" ■*$=&§<: $ Songs for Divine Services. 31 % __ # O Lord my God ! Truth is thy essence ; Thou art the mercy, thou the tree Of life ; clear light is in thy presence, Wise counsel, Father, is with thee. Bid twilight vanish, dusk and drear, — Let morning's rosy mirth appear ! O Lord, thou fount of life e'er flowing, Thou never-fathomed sea of love, Give me, to quench my thirst so glowing, One wave, one drop from thee above. O, still the thirst that burns in me, O, hush my soul that yearns for thee ! 61. Heavenward, Heavenward our paces lead ; On this earth we are sojourning, And to Canaan, as our meed, Through the desert we are turning. Here on dusty roads we roam, Yonder yonder is our home. Heavenward ! My faith in God Pointeth to the land eternal. Soaring is my soul abroad, Far beyond the lights supernal. I am longing to return Where the lights of beauty burn. Heavenward when taking me, Loving Death shall find me quiet ; Then Til look triumphantly Down on all this earthly riot. Heavenward my soul shall strive, Till at last I there arrive. *r,4w&lc: 32 Songs for Divine Services. — - i Seek ye the Lord- . Seek ye the Lord, and he is near, Call ye on him. and he will hear. Look up to him — In darkness a light — Hope ye in him. By day and by night. Seek ye the Lord, and he is near, Gall- ye on him. and he will hear. He is the love, Though e'en he try- us, He, from above, Cheereth the pious. Seek ye the Lord, and he is near, Call ye on him, and he will hear. 63. Thou Holy One. Look down on us who stand here bowed and humble, Thou Holy One, who guard'st the infant's life ; Assist us in our need S let us not stumble ; Make us victorious in our strife. From sorrow's rod Guard us. O God ! To thee we pray. Our Rock, our Stay ; With fervent hearts we pray, Be our guard for aye ! O, hear our suppliant lay ! 64 We worship thee. We worship thee. O Lord with awe, Who rulest earth and heaven. Our life is brief— this is thy law — To thee be praises given ! . 5or.i5 for Divir.e Services. 3 The rreath of youth will fast decay, The fire of youth will die away, Thou rul'st, thou reign'st forever. We lean, Lore. open thy gr^te, Our days are few and grievous ; Like clouds that pass and leave no trace, The joys of life may leave us: — Thou wert our father's shield and guard, And wilt to us thy love award ; Thou lov'st and blessest ever. From dust to heaven points our faith, When soul and body sever; To heaven leads the spirit's path, Her treasures vanish never. Hope, thou child of heavenly birth ! There is a life beyond this earth! Thy kingdom lasts forever. 65. Though dark my Night. Though dark mv night, and o'er me break With flashing light the thunder: His eyes behold my aching smart; In kindness does he number The sorrows cumbering my heart, — The cares that break my slumber. I know, he sent me trials, lest My heart grow slothful when at rest, From God and virtue turning. Awake, my soul, have God in sight ; Soon disappears the gloomy night, o And rosy ^lows the morning. f 552 ^ 34 Songs for Divine Services. 66. The Seed of Tears. What with weeping thou hast sown, Blooms and ripes, of joy the root ; If with labor thou hast mown, Cheerful shalt thou eat the fruit. All the pious and the noble, Seeing lights that never cease, Had to pass through strife and trouble, Climbing up the heights of peace. Bear, O soul, thy pains with patience, Quiet walk the line of life, When enough here thy probations, Blessings will reward thy strife. 67. One Father, one Home. One loving Father have we all ; 'Tis God, whole holy pleasure Created all, the great and small ; His mercy has no measure. One home paternal have we all, To which our ways are wending; It is above — in yonder hall Of happiness unending. U 68. Fear not. Fear not, when thy sun is setting, W T hen thy lot seems dark and dread ; Murmur not, and be not fretting, Though thou eat affliction's bread. j Songs for Divine Services. 35 J! For the hand that gave thee sadness, Holds of life and death the cup, Gives alike both woe and gladness, Bringeth low and raiseth up. 69. Hope, the Golden Ladder. Hope ! Hope is the golden ladder Whereon hearts to heaven climb ; Soul, take her for thy companion, Till thine hour of death shall chime. When the morn serene and smiling Shines on life's awaking prime ; — When gray Sorrow calls on manhood, Covering its head with rime, — When at last the age-worn traveller Asks, "When comes my resting time?"- Hope is e'er the golden ladder Whereon hearts to heaven climb ; Soul, take her for thy companion, Till thine hour of death shall chime. 70. Peace, my Heart. Peace, my heart ! Be still within, Though the night around be fearful ; Unless grieved by thine own sin, Lift thy head up free and cheerful ! Bright and righteous is God's path ; Hope, my heart, nor lose thy faith. Heart, be trustful ; not in vain Smites thy Father, nor to pain thee ; E'en thy suffering is thy gain, And through trials he will train thee. Faith in God and future life Conquers in all woe and strife. !; :i M3S° m**\ 36 Songs for Divine Services. 1 Hope, my heart, and trustful keep ; Soon to haven comes thy vessel, When the raging billows sleep, And the tempests cease to wrestle. Hark ! God calls within thy breast, " There's the port that gives thee rest." 71. My Heart. My heart, what is it then that blasteth Thy hopes, when God afflicteth thee . Be blithe, my heart ; not long it lasteth ; Thy trouble ends, thou art set free. Accept, my heart, God's dispensation, Whate'er he send thee from above ; For thy own best is thy probation, In trials he bestows his love. — Yea, Father, I will still, unfearing, Go onward carrying my load, My praying hands to thee uprearing, My hopeful eyes to thee, my God. 72. If God be with me. If God be with me, I'll not shake In need and gloomy care ; The anchor of my hope may break,- I find my trust in prayer. To thee alone, my God, I bend, Though men against me gather; To happiness my ways shall tend, Thou art with me, my Father! Songs for Divine Services. 73. Not for a Long Life. I pray thee not my days to lengthen ; — A staff of trust my walk to strengthen, A levelled path, devoid of sorrow, Contentment new on every morrow, Joined with a lofty aspiration For spreading blessings and salvation, A gentle heart, devotion fervent — These gifts, O Lord, grant to thy servant. 74. Hear our Prayer. Hear our prayer, thou our Protector ! Be propitious as we call ; Be our guardian and director Of our steps ; let us not fall ! Not for empty show we care ; Grant that virtue be our share. Lord, direct our inclinations, That to thee we may be true ; Far from glittering ostentations, Still and glad our ways pursue. So thou dwellest in our heart, Joys and pleasures are our part. 75. For thee, Lord. For thee, O Lord, all beings wait, To give to them their daily alms. Thou openest thy hand, Their wants are satisfied. J**56*>- - 38 Songs for Divine Services. J Thou for a moment hid'st thy face, They tremble all and stand appalled ; Thou tak'st their breath away, — Back to their dust they turn. Again, thou send'st thy spirit forth, They are renewed and blossom fresh ; Replenished is the earth Again with beauty's charms. 76. Father, I call on thee. Father, I call on thee ! Dangers unnumbered hourly expect me ; Lord, in thy mercy, thou wilt protect me. God of Creation, I call on thee, Father, O guide thou me! Father, O guide thou me! Guide me through life, and in death guide me; Lord, to thy mercy I will confide me ; Lord, as thou wilt, so guide thou me, Father, thy hand I see- Father, thy hand I see ! Or in the leaflets' autumnal rustling, Or in the storm-wind furious bustling, Fountain of mercy, thy hand I see, Father, O bless thou me' Father, O bless thou me! Thine is my life, Lord, thou didst awake it, Thou who hast given, thou may'st take it, In life or in death, Lord, bless thou me ; Father, I worship thee ! $1° °t§§^ Songs for Divine Services. 39 77. Lord, out of the Depth. Lord, out of the depth, I call on thee ! Father, hear me, Come to cheer me ; Lift thy countenance up to me! Lord, to thee my eyes look up and wait. I implore thee, Come, restore me, Ope to me thy mercy's gate ! 78. God sleeps and slumbers not. God sleeps and slumbers not, E'er open are his eyes. He granteth thee thy lot In equal site and size. God sleeps and slumbers not, His mercy's sun is bright; When night besets thy cot, He will illume thy sight. God sleeps and slumbers not, What day his angel lowers, And from this darksome spot Thy soul to light upsoars. iw«fe8 4 44 Songs for Divine Services. ' 87, Religion. God hath given. Religion, thou sweet child of heaven, Be to my heart e'er dear and blest ; Oft with despair it would be riven, When by the load of life oppressed ; But thou giv'st gladness to my soul, And lead'st me gently to my goal. Thou giv'st me faith and strength in danger, And when I sink thou hold'st me up ; Unto the wearied travelling stranger Thou lend'st the trusty staff of hope, Whereon he still and firmly leans When resting from life's toiling scenes. Unto my soul in darkness groping, Thou show'st the lights that ever burn; The heavens at thy word are oping, I see the everlasting morn. O, living truth of heavenly birth, Thou lift'st from dust the son of earth ! 88. - Word of Life. Of all founts thou art the clearest, Word of life ! Of heavenly birth, From afar with light thou cheerest All that seek thee in life's dearth. When they like a willow wither, Scorched by sunbeams overhead, Say'st thou, " Travellers, come hither, Rest here at my shady bed !" O, pour in my heart sweet pleasures, Bidding earthly pains be dead ; Nor withhold thy limpid treasures ? Till death's shroud is o'er me spread. : ***% & <*&*& Mfe rr^ Songs for Divine Services. 45 4» 89. Truth and Peace. God is my light ! Truth, truth seeks my soul, She asks, " O, where is light? — n Seek whom all extol, With him the day is bright God is my light ! God is my joy! Peace, peace seeks my heart, Would fain with joy be blest- High Heaven is thy part, There find'st thou joy and rest. God is my joy! 90. The Torah a Light. Where should I find The light of mind Save in thy law from heaven ? Without thy word, My heart, O Lord, Would with suspense be riven. Thy word explains All joys and pains The soul on earth here trieth; It calls this life The scene of strife, To gain what never dieth. Enthroned in awe ! Allow thy law To be my holiest pleasure ! Make it my strength, And my days' length, My share, my wealth, my treasure ! § ■ : m*k Songs for Divine Services. 91. 92. The Word of God refreshes. Blest is whom thy word refreshes, Lord, who makes thy law his stay ; Blest is whom thy light, the precious, Guides when dark around his way. Bless'd by all, to all a blessing, Cheerfully he runs his course; And when wearied, He is carried To a fresh and quickening source. Lord, the precepts thou hast given, To perceive them make us wise. To our hearts give peace from heaven, Power to see unto our eyes. Look with blessings down upon us, Lead us where health's fountain starts, In thy tender Mercy, render Pure again and bright our hearts. The Light of God. Lord, high is the position, Thou hast to us assigned. To guide us on our mission, Thou gav'st a light of mind, That quells our rising anguish, And bids all fears remove ; Imparts to hearts that languish The fire of heavenly love. In life, it goes before us Illumining our path ; In death, it shineth o'er us, A star of hope and faith. :=B*»# Songs for Divine Services. 47 ^ j r 93. Mind and Will. Lord, who didst on Sinai's hill Teach us how to walk before thee, Strengthen us, and make our will Join our minds, that both adore thee. Lord enthroned in Majesty ! Let thy power work within us ; Let each heart belong to thee ; — For thy holy service win us ! 94. Lord, thy Laws. Lord, thy laws whose worth unmeasured, Thy decrees pure and divine, — In my heart they shall be treasured, There shall be their earth-built shrine. For they dart, on every station Of my life, light in my heart, — Lead me onward to salvation, — Bid me choose my better part. 95. God's Word is perfect. Thy word, my God, is perfect, teaching Man's way and end, man's work and strife; It shows to all that list its preaching The road of truth, the rod of life. On all our ways it shines before us, And bids the clouds of doubt depart ; It holds the shield of mercy o'er us, And fills with trustfulness each heart. 48 Songs for Divine Services. O, still my longing- from thy fountain Of truth, which brightens all, O Lord, Who on devotion's holy mountain, Contemplate earnestly thy word. O, bid thy hallowed source impart New strength and peace unto my heart. :=ag=*a 96. Light and Truth. O Lord, hear in abundant mercy, Thy Congregation's sacred lays ; Grant us to trace thy holy footprints, And walk forever in thy ways. Love and compassion are thy footprints, To follow them be our life's aim ; O, with a father's arm embrace us, And guard our souls from sin and shame. O, source of life and truth unending ! Cheer with thy light each pious heart ; Vouchsafe that on our earthly journey That light may ne'er from us depart 97. Heart, Spirit and Power. Create, my God, a heart in me, That glows in pious love to thee ; Pure and true — a sacred shrine, A dwelling-place of praise divine. 1 Songs for Divine Services. 49 £ J , _____ $s A spirit, Lord, to me impart, To break all idols of my heart ; Great, sublime — a fount of light, — Truth-perceiving, clear and bright. A power, O Lord, in me create, Achieving what is good and great ; Strong and firm, to act untired, E'er with holy zeal inspired. 98. The Word of Revelation, In this ark of holy station Rests the word of revelation ; Let it, Lord, now be implanted In our bosoms, and there granted, As a seed of good deed, Fruits of godliness to speed. To thy word of truth immortal, Open thou our inmost portal ; Grant us with delight to hear it, Grant that it illume our spirit; Mild and clear, true and sheer, Did thy word to us appear. As the bud unfolds its centre, When mild sunbeams seek to enter, So our soul to thy light turneth, To admit thy truth she yearneth. In this gate radiate, Word of God! For thee we wait. Wf^s^ 50 Songs for Divine Services. J 99. The Unity of God. Hear, Israel, this word : " One is God ; to none beside him Shalt thou bow in servant's awe." That it might forever guide him, He to Judah gave this law. — It is in darkest nights our light, In all distress our strength, our might. The Eternal is our God ! He is Master of all Nature, And unbounded is his might. Bring him praises, every creature, Sing his greatness day and night ! To him we look, to him, the One, In darkness, or when bright our sun. The Lord is One, is One ! One, when he, kind like a father, Keeps the world in his embrace, One, when he in anger rather Seems to hide from us his face. His mercy reigneth at all times, He leads through death to blissful climes. 100. In deep Devotion. We all in deep devotion now, Unto thy throne, Most Holy, bow, To hear thy word expounded. Make pure our hearts, and strong our will, That, all our days, we may fulfill Thy laws, on wisdom founded. ! Songs for Divine Services. 51 101. What Religion teaches. Calm to be, when storms around us riot, When on fortune's raging billows tossed ; Blithe to be when thrust into disquiet, When the waves swell high, yet must be crossed; This teaches us, the sons of earth, Religion of celestial birth. Glad in God to welcome every morrow, Every night to close our eyes serene; Unto God resigning each our sorrow Still to wait, till better days be seen ; This teaches us, the sons of earth, Religion of celestial birth. While alive, to live content; when dying, Calmly for a fairer land to wait, Where unfading love reigns, re-allying All whom here fell death did separate : This teaches us, the sons of earth, Religion of celestial birth. 102. Arise, my Soul, Arise my soul, and wing thee Up to thy Father's throne ; My lips shall sing his praises, And make his mercies known. Through Moses he hath given To us his law — a guide That leadeth through life's journey All who in it abide. &^l=: a 52 Songs for Divine Services. I praise thee, Lord, I praise thee Thou hast to us unfurled A light that made thy people A blessing to the world. My helper in all dangers, My trust in care and death ! A priest I will be ever Of Israel's holy faith. 103. True Devotion. Bowed in meekness I stand here, Filled with reverent emotion ; Father, open thou my ear, Grant me true and still devotion, That thy word with wisdom feed me, And the way to heaven lead me. Vouchsafe that thy holy word, As it to my heart descendeth, There mature, my Rock and Lord, Fruits of life that never endeth, All my powers within me nerving, That thy will I do, unswerving. Let it be my guiding light, When the way is dark before me; And my stronghold, when the night Of drear doubts impendeth o'er me; My delight, my consolation, When I leave this earthly station. 3? £ Songs for Divine Services. 53 1 104. The Breath of Holy Prayer. O Lord, the breath of holy prayer, Uplifting me from earthly care, Moves through this sacred dwelling; 1 My soul fain would to heaven flee, She wings herself up unto thee, The fount whence truth is welling. Fear and gladness, Hope and sadness, — Each emotion Flows and waves through my devotion. The world may offer me a cup Containing many a bitter drop — One gaze of thine, — the furrows Of care are smoothed to ease, Our hearts are soothed with heaven's breeze; Away are all our sorrows. Thou mak'st blessed The depressed ; Thy direction Leadeth mortals to perfection. 105. I trust in thee. I trust in thee ! A rock unmoved Midst ocean's waves is, Lord, thy word; On it I lean. Thy laws are proved, The light of truth do they afford. — A father art thou unto me ; Thy child knows it and trusts in thee. S s I 54 Songs for Divine Services. 106. Sh'ma Yisrael. Give ear, O Israel ! O, hear the holy word of creed Thou didst receive, so clear, so bright, On Sinai there ; — it was thy lead, It was thy light by day and night ; It went with thee thy life to heed. Give ear, O Israel ! The Lord is God, and none besides ; In him alone thou seest bright The thought that in creation hides. From him receive thy law, contrite ; With him alone the truth abides. Give ear, O Israel ! In all thy ways acknowledge him ; If light thy path, and clear and bright, Or wrapt in sorrow drear and grim : He is thy hope ; have him in sight, Though e'en thy light of life grow dim. Songs for Divine Services. 55 £ V. HYMNS FOR SABBATHS AND FESTIVALS. {Sabbath) 107, Sabbath Eve. Thou, Sabbath Eve, returnest To earth from heaven's height ; For thee in holy earnest My heart throbs with delight. When down thy shadow glideth, How grows my soul so still ! The storm of sin subsideth, Waked is the pious will. Methinks the heavens greet me And bring from toil release; Come, Sabbath, thou shalt meet me With God and man in peace. 108. Sabbath Night. Angels on their pinious bring thee Down to us. O Sabbath Xight; Hymns of holy triumph sing thee, And each heart is filled with light. Earthly cares no more possess us ; Thou, O Sabbath, com'st to bless us. I h Songs for Divine Services. Sabbath Night ! A thousand burning Starlets glisten in our hearts ; With thy sheen thou still'st our yearning, Mild and quickening are thy darts. With thy radiant garment dress us ; Sabbath, from thy heavens bless us ! 109. The Day of Rest. This is the Day of Rest ! A holy yearning thrills my heart; ) For God's abode it bids me start, Through blessings to be blest. Adoring stand I here. O sacred joy, O secret thrill ! As when a host of angels, still And soft, to me draw near. Through blessings to be blest, The pious to God's dwelling flock, And praise aloud their heavenly Rock, " This is thy Day of Rest I" 110. Sabbath Rest. Sabbath Rest, be welcome. Come, God's covenant from above, Come, anew make known his love, Who sent thee to Judah's race — Sweetest token of his grace ! Sabbath Joy, be welcome ! O, release the prayerful soul Sighing under cares' control ; Breathe sweet joy into each breast ; Bring us pure celestial rest! %$&&£= , ■ , — _ c§#^ ] J! Songs for Divine Services. 57 J Sabbath Peace, be welcome ! Bid all worldly thoughts retire; Make our heart a sacred lyre, Tune our soul to sing God's law, Fill our mind with holy awe ! 111. Sabbath, Peace- inviting. When the Sabbath, peace-inviting, Fills our hearts with sacred mirth, When from heaven, soul-delighting Manna raineth down on earth : Then, to song all sorrow yieldeth, Loud to God rings up the strain, Heaven-born devotion wieldeth O'er each soul her reign again. — Here where worshipers assemble, Where God's spirit 'mong us dwells, Where all lips rejoicing tremble, And with thanks^each bosom swells : Here the dust-born man perceiveth That he is the child of God, Chosen, when this earth he leaveth, There to live in truth's abode. 112. Sabbath Morning. Sun and Sabbath — both how pleasant, Are allied this morning! Messengers of God are present, Lights of joy are burning ! — Melodies of thanks awake me; Up to thee I will betake me, With filial love adore thee. Lord, I'll praise thy name each morrow, Bless thee, both in joy and sorrow, And ever walk before thee. Amen. Songs for Divine Services. J! Spring and Freedom. When the Sun of Spring awaketh, And his rays redeeming melt the snow; When her fetters Nature breaketh, And her starry blooms in beauty glow: Sweet and pleasant rings the chime, Welcome, welcome, Vernal Time ! When the Sun of Freedom dashes With his fiery rod the tyrant's crown, That his scepter no more lashes Nations hanging on his haughty frown: Thundering, roaring, rings the chime, Welcome, welcome, Freedom's Time ! Fairest of. all vernal days, When the Lord, redeeming Israel's tribe, Bade them " Bask in freedom's rays, And my wonders on your hearts inscribe." All abroad now may it chime, Welcome, welcome, Vernal Time ! Welcome, welcome, Freedom's Time ! 114. The Days of Old. The days of old arise before us, When out of Egypt's bondage-house Thy people, a rejoicing chorus, Went forth with grateful songs and vows. No fetters more enslaved them ; Thy mighty arm, Lord, saved them, > That made bright light from darkness rouse. 5 s&ags§o — - — °ee§ f °jfe 5 * Songs for Divine Services. 59 J With Freedom's Manna didst thou feed them, And bid them bask in Freedom's ray; Thy sceptre mild should henceforth lead them, And tyranny no longer sway. To walk in light before thee, Till all mankind adore thee, — This is thy people's destined way. 115. Pessach Morning. Pessach Morning ! Behold God breaks our fetters ; Freedom's air we're breathing. Freedom's Morning! No more affliction, no more anguish ! Wonders level Freedom's path. Vernal Morning ! A promised Eden radiant lies before us, Father, Father, lead us onward ! 116. The Spirit of the Age. To God, to God arise, my song, Who never gave us to despondence ; For him my flesh and spirit long. Who metes his mercies' great abundance ? He broke the iron rod in twain, Grim tyranny was swaying o'er us; He tore asunder Egypt's chain, Made freedom's pillar march before us. — O Lord, thy judgment since has tried Our sires with many visitations ; Nor shook their faith, e'en when they died; They died and blessed thy dispensations. 5*48=: 60 Songs for Divine Services. But on the brink of the abyss The trumpet of thy help was sounded; At last we've found this home of bliss, By loving brothers we're surrounded. And now, when breathing free again, When hate is silenced, mute the scorning, Our spirit breaks her yoke in twain, And spreads her pinion toward the morning. O grant us, Lord, to understand Thy deeds in their full depth and essence, That we, uplifting heart and hand, In truth adore thy holy presence. :*&*#:< 117. Praise our God. All abroad praise our God ; praise him all creation ! In all tongues, sing him songs, him alone ovation. Bow in fear, far and near, praise him every nation ! At all times, to all climes, sendeth he good tiding. Heart depressed findeth rest, when in him confiding, Ne'er despair ) when in care, be in God abiding. God is nigh ; hears thy cry, when storms hover o'er thee. In distress he will bless, and send light before thee. Hush thy grief ! sure relief will to bliss restore thee. Bend thine ear, Lord, and hear; let thy mercy heed us ! Bid thy light and thy right, on thy path to lead us ! All our days may the rays of thy wisdom speed us ! }jifcm> = Songs for Divine Services. 77 \ Cherishing a holy flame In their hearts unbending, The Asmonean tribe won fame And renown unending. Round their heads victorious Waving palms, Singing psalms, Praised they God the glorious. By the sheen of cheerful lights, Priests, approved in sufferings, Came to Zion, new from fights, Bringing God their offerings. — Father of Creation ! As this night, Let joys light, Ever crown thy nation ! 11 Songs for Divine Services. V: VI. THE SEASONS OF THE YEAR 140. The Beneficence of the Lord. The heavens and the earth, O Lord, Are full of thy beneficence; The worlds, so vast and wondrous, say, " We are His handiwork." 141. Spring. Up, praise Him for the beauteous Spring And all its bloomy treasures ! — Whose love bids all creation sing And fills each heart with pleasures. Shout to the Lord a joyous lay, Whose bounteous voice reviveth What seemed forever to decay, That in new bloom it thriveth. From all these beauties here on earth Lift up your eyes to heaven ! In sweet accord with Nature's mirth, To God be praises given ! "88*8$ Songs for Divine Services. 142. Summer. To the Father of all creatures Soar, my thoughts, to seek his face! Lawn and field wear joyous features, Telling his unbounded grace. Nature round me sprouting, blooming, Speaks aloud of life's sweet zest; Kindles flames of joy, consuming Every grief within my breast. Lord ! I praise thy all-renewing, Life-bestowing power and love ; Thanks and joys, all cares subduing, Lift my heart to thee above. 143. Autumn. Lo, Autumn's pale, yet charming light Lends to the field new graces ; In dying Nature, Lord of Might, We still see thy love's traces. Autumn is like a pious life, That blesses till it closes ; When ended is life's toil and strife, Of bliss it still disposes. 144. Winter. Be blessed, Lord, Rock of all-ages, Whose loving-kindness hath no term. What if the storm of winter rages ? It is to wake the slumbering germ. Comes the Spring, the all-reviving, Earth shows forth her secret thriving. i**ieft>- 80 Songs for Divine Services. Thy mercies, Lord, endure for ever. — When Winter sends his freezing breath, And in the bed that warmeth never, We rest, wrapt in the shroud of death : Lord, thy breath goes forth, reviving Death-bound souls for vernal thriving. 145. Nature, God's Witness. Who spake, and the earth" was moulded, And the heavens were unfolded ? And who commands the legions Of lights in unsearched regions ? My body — who did make it, And who to life awake it? Who taught my soul immortal To enter wisdom's portal ? 'Tis thou ! thy works proclaim thee, " The Bountiful " they name thee. My spirit hears their voices, And in their praise rejoices. :ri-- Songs for Divine Services. 81 VII. SONGS FOR THE CONFIRMATION ACT. 146. Moment most holy. Ctmfirmands. Blessed, O blessed, Moment most holy, Leading the lowly- Youth to the Lord ! Choir. Pray for his light ! Nigh is he e'er To the contrite ; Children in prayer Are his delight. Confirmands. Bounteous Father! In thy light lead us, From thy height heed us ! Thou art our Shepherd, We are thy flock. Choir. Be not in fright ! Nigh is he e'er To the contrite ; Children in prayer Are his delight. -■'# Songs for Divine Services. 87 What we in our bosoms cherish, Lord, before thee now we own ; Truths and hopes that never perish, We lay down before thy throne. We will, guided by thy spirit, Live and die, O Lord, with thee; Father, cause us to inherit Thy true grace eternally. Choir, Ye have brought your holy vows Here before him, in his house; — Go, and be blest fore'er ! Yours be a happy share, Yours be a pleasant lot : May peace from heaven, And faith that shaketh not, To you be given ! i & I 88 Songs for Divine Services. VIII. FOR THE THANKSGIVING DAY. 153. The Thanks of all Living. Almighty Lord, who sendest forth thy breath, Into existence waking lives unnumbered ; With all that gives them happiness beneath They are by thy paternal care remembered. In filial love therefore, thy Name is blest By all that breathe, enjoying life's sweet zest. And all look up with never failing trust To thy paternal grace, the all-sustaining. Lord ! Who that lives should not bow down in dust To thee whose faith and love are never waning ? Lo, gratitude is to thy name addressed By all that breathe, enjoying life's sweet zest. O Father, let the lustre of thy face Beam to all souls that for thee wait confiding, And let all hearts that sing thy loving-grace Behold thy mercy in their midst abiding. O Lord, let thy compassion ever rest On all that breathe, enjoying life's sweet zest! $ feoS^b -■ - . - — o fiflfcoft-4 Songs for Divine Services. 89 154. The Mercies of the Lord. Days and nights upon us shower, Lord, the mercies of thy choice ; What restores the body's power, And what makes the soul rejoice, Is in thy creation stored. Everywhere, I find, O Lord, Of thy love divine a token, Giving me delights unspoken. Through thy grace the trees have yielded Fruits, the panting to sustain, And the flowing fields were gilded With the ears of ripened grain. Blest with plenty, Earth can give Food to all that on her live. Seeing, Lord, thy love abundant, Who could ever be despondent ? All our anthems of devotion, How they are inadequate To express our heart's emotion, Lord, for whom all creatures wait ! Thou'rt our guardian, thou our guide, Thou wilt e'er with us abide ; E'en in trials and distresses Thy paternal mercies bless us. 90 Songs for Divine Services. 155. Our Country. Protect us, Father, be our stay ! O keep us safe from day to day. Let order reign in our dear land, And bless the labor of each hand. The mighty States together bound, O, let them rest on firmest ground : On truth and justice let them rest, With freedom and with concord blest. Our leaders, Lord, do thou inspire With zeal and strength that never tire ; Around our nation wreathe the band Of common love to our dear land. Bid freedom and the reign of peace Among all human kind increase. Thy praise be told by every mouth, From East to West, from North to South ! il ym^m % Prayers and Meditations. 91 1 PRATERS AND MEDITATIONS. ON THE EVE OF THE NEW YEAR. The Rabbi. Out of the depths of our hearts do we call on thee, O Lord ! O God, hear our prayer and accept our supplication ! We have come this night before thy throne to render praise and adoration unto thy Name. We bring unto thee the thankful offerings of our lips for the numberless gifts of thy bounty, and beseech thee to grant us, in the coming year, life and prosperity, blessing and contentment. And we have all come with trust in thy mercy, and wait for thy grace. We all lift up our eyes unto thee, as children wait for their father's loving gaze. When we look backward on the past year and the many joys and pains it brought unto us, and when we look for- ward into the dark vista of the new year, considering what joys and pains it may contain for us, we perceive and acknowledge that our destinies are in thy hand, and that mercy and kindness are with thee. There- fore do we put our trust in thee.; therefore do we pour out our souls before thee, when, on the entrance of a new period of existence, our emotions overwhelm us. Be pleased, then, to accept the thanks which we render unto thee for so many a joy, so many a relief, so many a blessing bestowed on us during the year just faded from sight. gCs^ «% V-*73 < : — — : — — & 92 Prayers and Meditations. Jl Accept also the thanks which, with a submissive heart, we render unto thee even for the trials with which thou didst visit us, for the woes wherewith thou didst see fit to afflict us, the sorrowful burdens thou didst place upon us, in order that we might be cleansed and purified from all that is sinful and de- basing, and be led in meekness unto thee, the Master of all beings. Accept also the thanks which we lay upon thy altar for the undertakings on behalf of the general welfare wherein we have been allowed to share, aiding in a union for common interests which thou hast per- mitted us to attain, — partaking in so many movements for the advancement of Israel's cause which thy voice aroused in our hearts. O, do thou further look with grace upon us in this year just ushered in; let the abundance of thy bless- ings rest upon us, so that it may become a year of life and health to all that call on thee, — a year of peace and concord to all that acknowledge thee, — a year in which the true divine spirit is aroused in the midst of Israel, — a year of increased love and fear of thy Holy Name, and of esteem and appreciation of us, the standard bearers of thy unity over the whole face of the earth. Happy as we, in this our country, are in the enjoy- ment of liberty, shared in common by all, we call to mind this night our brethren in faith who are yet re- fused those inherent rights because of their religious convictions. O, grant that everywhere on earth Is- rael's sons may be relieved of the heavy and painful burden of oppression which has its origin in the olden days of prejudice; grant that in every spot, as here, the barriers may be torn down which separate the professors of thy unity from those whom we are taught to call our brethren, and by whom we desire # to be called brethren in union and friendship. O, Prayers and Meditations. 93 grant that the knowledge of thy Name and the con- sciousness of equality as the inalienable right of every human being, may be kindled, and shine resplendently among all nations. O, destroy the seeds of discord between man and man, between people and people, out of which grow the thorns of strife and the thistles of war. Let the seeds of love and humanity which thou hast strewed, both in thy divine word and in the uncor- rupted heart of man, spring up and flourish, in order that all beings whom thou hast endowed with reason, may extend a brotherly hand to each other, and unite in thy Name and in thy fear, as thou hast promised through thy prophets. And, thus, be thou praised, O Lord Eternal, who in grace and mercy hearest the prayers of all who call on thee in truth ! Amen. &. Choir. Hear us, as in thy dwelling We grateful sing thy love, Our songs of praise rise swelling Unto thy throne above. Our knees before thee bended, We pray in holy fear : Let all our woes be ended With the expiring year. Bring near the day, O Father, When every lip names thee, In love all nations gather And bid all contests flee. Let Israel's sons a blessing To all mankind appear, Show all that they're possessing Thy grace this coming year. 4 94 Prayers and Meditations. j BEFORE SOUNDING THE SHOFAR. The Rabbi. " A.wake, ye slumberers, from your slumbers, and ye listless ones from your indifference; examine your deeds, and penitently return to the Source of justice and truth. O ye, that, immerged in worldly employ- ments and pleasures, forget your true destiny ; ye who pass your days in vanities which cannot profit nor deliver — O, remember your Creator ; look into your own souls, and amend your ways and your deeds. Let each of you abandon his bad course and ignoble thoughts!" This is the Shofar's admonition, as interpreted by one of our Sages. O Lord our God ! Should we hear the call and not tremble? — The piercing sound of the cornet rever- berating on our ear, we are made conscious that we have oft forgotten the high mission of humanity for which thou hast placed us on earth ; that we have oft been heedless of the lofty career which thy law has pointed out before us ; that we have oft disregarded thy divine voice within us cautioning our souls against self-degradation and wrong-doing, and inciting us to self-elevation and noble deeds. The Shofar's sound is unto us a symbol of thy forcible appeal unto the children of men. We hear thy voice, O Father; thou callest thy children back to thee, and we will readily obey thy summons. We venture this day to approach thee with the Shofar's thrilling sound ascending as the homage we bring unto thee. Thou art our King, and we are thy servants ; thou our Master, and we the messengers of thy will ; thou our Father, and we thy children. O, grant that our whole earthly existence may be one continuous glorification unto thee and homage ren- f dered unto thy great Name, and that all our steps < Prayers and Meditations. 95 J . | may manifest that they are regulated by thy com- mands alone. Thou art the Judge of our actions, and our deeds lie open before thee as a book of records ; thou art the director of our destinies and dispensest to each according to thy wisdom, justice and kindness. O, judge us not according to our doings ; let thy grace reign over us ; forgive our failings, and pardon our sins! When thou goest with us into judgment, O let us appear before thee .cleansed and purified from all defilement ; for thou art the God of love, and with thee there is redemption. Grant, then, that the tones of the Shofar may enter into our hearts and awaken therein all the noble re- solves and sublime vows to which thy voice sum- mons us ; and like our fathers before the height of Sinai, when they were aroused by the sound of the Shofar, so will we exclaim, " Whatever the admonition of the Lord requires of us, we will do in humble obedience." Amen. The trumpet calls, " Awake, awake, List to my warning voice ; Inspect thy ways ; the bad forsake, And make the good thy choice." We hear thy voice ; O Lord, we're called Before thy court divine ; We hear thy voice and stand appalled, And in our sins we pine. Judge us according to thy grace, Not as our deeds deserve ; Make us endure before thy face, And ne'er more from thee swerve. \ 96 Prayers and Meditations. f FOR THE MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR THE DEAD. Rabbi. A sad, and yet a blissful hour is it, when on the holiest of days — on the Sabbath of Sabbaths — our souls soar upward to the realms above where perpetual Sabbath reigns, — where the toil of life is over, and man enjoys the fruits of his work on earth. The seal of mystery is stamped on the futurity of man's soul. None living has ever penetrated it, and of the departed none has returned to give knowledge of what he has seen, and to answer the solemn ques- tions that fill every human being with anxiety. No prophet in holy vision has rent the veil asunder which is drawn over the life of mortals. " No eye has ever seen, besides God alone, what is prepared for those that wait for him." But an inner voice, loud and intelligible, tells us that this life here, full as it is of toil and trou- ble, of contention and strife, of trial and tempta- tion, cannot be closed with the death of the body. It cannot be that we should be delivered up to de- struction as soon as the body is placed in the silent grave. It cannot be that we should here strive and wrestle in vain, while naught remains of us but the vanities for which we have so strenuously toiled. It cannot be that both good and bad — the noble and the mean, — he that all his life-time has striven for virtue, and he that has been a slave of brutal passions, — he that in noble self-denial has loved mankind and de- voted his best powers to their welfare, and he that in vile selfishness has looked upon the world as his do- minion to be despoiled by him in injustice and vio- lence, — it cannot be that all should be alike subject to !| destruction and annihilation. # h Prayers and Meditations. 97 A sure conviction fills our hearts that those who in tears have here strewn seeds of virtue, will in future reap the fruit of gladness ; who here contended with sin and conquered, will one day enjoy the results of their victory ; who here through struggle and trials have purified and cleansed themselves, will rejoice in the realization of beatitude. Such conviction speaks to man's soul : " Fear not ! there is a reward for thy work ; there is a hope for thy future which cannot fail !" And this conviction of immortality which the Crea- tor of the universe has placed in our minds, — this surety which thrills our bosoms, is the surest evidence of the immortality of the soul. What understanding builds up, understanding may tear down again ; what reason developes, reason may refute; but the presentiment which reaches convic- tion, cannot be implanted in our breast for our decep- tion. The longing which the All-bountiful has placed in our hearts, must be fulfilled. This struggle, this striving on earth, must find a reward, — a reward, not of an earthly nature, as the struggle and strife are not of this earth. This flame that turneth upwards, must eventually reach the great Source of light. Yea, Eternal Lord, this day which, in its blissful sanctity, is itself a messenger from heaven, calling our souls away from what is perishable, and directing them towards what is eternal, — this day is pre-emi- nently adapted to confirm within us the conviction that thou hast breathed an immortal spirit into our bodies, and that it is thou who recallest it when its earthly mission is fulfilled. This day of expiation whereon the triumph of the soul over the body is celebrated, seems unto us like a mirror reflecting its very life, when no longer chained by corporeal bonds. This day is unto us a greeting from yonder realms to o which our holy presentiment is pointing. g And ye, O dear departed ones, united with whom \ Prayers and Meditations. jj we here on earth once walked, until the voice of the Lord summoned you away ! Ye, our beloved, whose affection made us happy, whose watchful care protec- ted us, whose instruction fitted us for our career, whose example shone before us ; ye who quickened us with your word, encouraged us with your comfort ; all ye whose existence beautified ours, and ye whose anticipated future shed a halo over our path, — and whose departure gave us unutterable grief! ye, never forgotten objects of our affection and our long- ing ! — ye stand this moment before our mental gaze. Death has not rent asunder the ties which life had woven ; the gloomy grave cannot obscure the light that illuminated your existence. Your souls are de- scending unto us ; our souls are soaring up to you. Our remembrance of you, mingled with sweetness and sadness, is our staff and stay on our earthly pil- grimage, our shield and buckler amid our battles, — our strength and animation in all our strivings. Our grief at your departure from us, cleanses and purifies our souls ; our affliction is a sweet angel bringing peace and reconciliation into our homes ; our longing uplifteth us above the vanities of this earth, turning our hearts toward the things imperishable. And in this refined and blissful state of our souls, are we enabled, on this day of confession and repent- ance, to rise from the humiliating consciousness of sin unto the firm resolve that we will devote our lives to the service of God and humanity in truth and up- rightness ; that we will renew the combat against sin and temptation ; that we will cleanse our hearts from the dross of selfishness ; and that we will render ourselves worthy to appear before the Supreme Judge on the day he summons us unto life eternal. Amen. (The remainder of the Memorial Service see Prayer Book, p. 384 and following.) Prayers and Meditations. 99 ' PRAYERS FOR VARIOUS OCCASIONS, w Prayer of a Husband for Sustenance and Domestic Happiness. O Lord and Father, who givest food unto all crea- tures, and in thy abundant love providest for myriads of beings ! grant that I and my family may likewise find the needful support of life. I pray not for exten- sive riches or possessions, but give me, O Father, what I really need, and what is good and beneficial for me. Guard me, All-bountiful God, from want and privation, and direct thou my heart, that in my pursuit after the requirements of this life, I may never deviate from the path of righteousness. Endow me with a contented heart, that I may in tranquillity and happiness enjoy the fruition of thy merciful gifts. Vouchsafe, O Lord, unto me the means of aiding my poor and needy fellow-beings, according to the best impulses of my heart, and let my habitation ever be open to the distressed and afflicted, that they may find there comfort and relief. Be further pleased, O Father, to grant unto all my dear ones the great blessing of health ; keep aloof from us sickness and woe: Grant that true piety mav ever reign in my household and in the hearts of my kindred. (And especially do I beseech thee to vouch- safe, that my beloved children whom thou hast been pleased to entrust to my care and guardianship, may grow up as good men and women, and true Israelites. Give them success and prosperity in their under- takings, and. guard them from the manifold dangers ever impending over man's life, that they may never go astray, but ever through deeds of virtue and truth glorify thy Name, deserve honor for themselves, and crown my life with unpurchasable joy.) Amen. fr*S8<» . Prayers and Meditations. Prayer of a Wife. Father of Mercy ! Unto thee my heart is turned ; unto thy loving care I resign what is dearest to me on earth. Protect my dear husband (and children), every member of my household, and all my family. Let thy loving watchfulness rest over them and defend them from whatever evil may threaten them by night or by day. Keep far from us disease and suffering, that we may not live in fear of the dangers of the day or the terrors of the night. Command thy angels to guard us in all our ways. Assist me in watching over the inclinations of my heart and my conduct in life. Guard me from vanity and worldli- ness ; teach me, in true womanhood, — in chastity and simplicity, to seek and find my highest gratifications in the innocent enjoyments of home. Grant unto me and my kindred, health of body, and keep our souls aloof from sinful allurements and temptations. Let us find favor, both in thy sight, and in the eyes of the good among mankind. Preserve my husband unto me in life and health ; for what would I, the feeble wo- man, be, if bereft of his support? Keep watch over our domestic happiness and peace, and grant unto us all eternal salvation. Accept this my prayer unto thee, who art my Stay and my Hope forever. Amen. Prayer of a Mother when Visiting the House of God after her Confinement. O Lord, thou art exalted above all, and yet nigh unto those who, in truth and devotion, call on thee ! With a humble and joyful heart, do I appear before thee to lay on thy altar my offering of thanks for thy aid and assistance, thy help and protection, who wert with me in my hour of need, didst guard me when death seemed to impend, and human strength m to fail. O Lord, from a true heart do I thank thee f for the addition to my domestic happiness. W&m> , — °683«i =r=>§^( Prayers and Meditations. 101 O may the sweet hopes which now thrill my bosom never be disappointed ! Watch over my tender babe, that it may thrive both in mind and body. Give me strength that I may be able at all times to perform my maternal duties, without neglecting any of them for the desire of enjoyment or by reason of bodily weakness. Give me wisdom to fulfill the responsible task of training the child thou hast given me, and aid me with thy wisdom and mercy, should either my power fail or inclination waver. Accept my solemn vow, that I will instruct my child in thy Law, that it may be armed with that knowledge which surpasses all other, so as to be able in due time to resist allure- ment, and become rich in virtue, and reverence of thee. Bountiful Father, bless and preserve it, that it may grow up in happiness, realizing our hopes, and glori- fying thy Name. Amen. Prayer for a Sick Person. Almighty God ! Hear the prayer which I offer unto thee on behalf of a suffering friend. Have compas- sion on him (her), and send him (her) thine aid.. Let his (her) affliction come before thee, and his (her) prayer ascend unto thy throne. His (her) eyes being lifted up to thee, O turn unto him (her), in thy mercy, for thou art the healer of the sick and a faithful attendant of the suffering. Should it however be thy inscrutable will that suf- fering should continue to be his (her) portion, O, do thou inspire him (her) with resignation to thy decrees, trust in thy dispensations, and never-ceasing hope in thee and thy goodness. But, O let his (her) life be spared, merciful Lord ! Vouchsafe unto the wearied limbs new strength, re-animate his (her) depressed heart, and grant that my dear friend may again enter on the path of renewed life in joy and happiness. Amen. 14 % ft 102 Prayers and Meditations. FOR THE CONFIRMATION RITES. Prayer of the Confirmands. All-bountiful Father ! With filial reverence do we approach thee at this solemn hour to consecrate our hearts unto thy service. Thou hast been with us, since we first beheld the light of day ; thou hast pre- served us from evil and from sickness, and up to this moment thy loving hand has led us, as a father lead- eth his child. We thank thee, O Lord, for thy good- ness, which we will never forget throughout all our days. Thou hast given us dear parents, guardians and leaders, who have confirmed us in all that is good, showing us the path that leads unto thee. How can we adequately thank thee for all this ? — Advancing now from the period of childhood, we promise to obey thee, O God, and keep thy commandments. But do thou still continue thy guardianship, and strengthen us to live in thy sight as virtuous children and pious Israelites. Be specially with us in this hour, O Omnipresent Being! Strengthen our hearts, that we may perceive and understand the significance of this moment unto all future days. Remove now from our minds all ex- traneous and wanton thoughts, and let our full atten- tion be turned to the sacredness of this period. Pre- serve within us forever the earnest emotions now alive in our hearts, that from this hour we may date a healthful change in our conduct ; that we may wax more thoughtful, virtuous, and obedient to thee, our Lord and Father ! Amen. Prayer of a single Confirmand. Bountiful Father ! With deep gratitude do I ac- knowledge thy infinite mercy. Thou hast enlightened me in thy Law, which teaches me what to perform and » Prayers and Meditations. 103 what to avoid. I know now whereon my happiness depends ; give me, therefore, strength to strive for it without deviating to the right or to the left. Soon am I to enter into active life, where there are dangers and temptations constantly lurking. O Lord, aid me, that I may tread firmly on the head of sin, ere he wound my foot and gain the mastery over me. As I'am now realizing what gratitude I owe to thee, O Lord, and to my dear parents (guardians), O grant that the memory of these benefits may never cease to animate me with strength, in order that I may remain virtuous in the hour of temptation. Then shall I never sin, never act against thy will, nor grieve my dear ones through ungodly conduct or through moral weakness and deviation from the path of rectitude. Reviewing the past period of my life, I am filled with trust for my future, for we are assured, O Lord, that thou art ever nigh unto all that seek thee in truth. I do seek thee, O Father; O let me then find thee ! Enlighten me with thy holy spirit, strengthen me with thy divine aid, and let me always live full of trust and belief in thee, O Father ! Amen. Confession of Faith. We firmly and truly believe that God is One, the only Lord, — a pure, spiritual Being; that God is the Creator, Ruler and Sustainer of the universe. To him alone, and none besides, is it proper to give praise and adoration, thanks and glory. We firmly and truly believe that God has created man in his own image, endowing him with reason and free will, and placing in his heart the desire for per- fection. We firmly and truly believe that God has revealed to man discrimination between right and wrong, by implanting within him the consciousness of his mis- f 104 Prayers and Meditations. sion for morality, and causing the voice of conscience to speak within him in accents of caution and admoni- tion — furthermore, that on Israel has he specially be- stowed the light of divine revelation, when he re- deemed them from Egyptian thralldom, and imparted to them the Law of truth, through his servant Moses, on Mount Sinai. We firmly and truly believe that the soul that God has breathed into us, is immortal and destined for fu- ture life, when it shall be judged for its doings, to be rewarded with imperishable happiness for the good it may have achieved on earth, and punished, according to the wisdom and justice of the Lord, for the evil it may have committed. We firmly and truly believe that God has chosen Israel to be a nation of priests among all mankind, — that Israel, by means of the revelation on Sinai, have received the sublime mission of spreading over all the earth the truths there made known, and of confirming all mankind in the true knowledge of God, — thus es- tablishing his divine kingdom on earth. We firmly and truly believe that the Messianic Days predicted by our prophets, will finally be realized through Israel's mission, when all mankind, redeemed from error, shall acknowledge the Only God as their Creator, Father and Redeemer. On that day shall all in unity and concord exclaim, "The Lord is One, and his Name One." Deeply imbued with the truth of these principles, we solemnly vow ever to confess them before all men in sincerity and frankness. We will live and die as Israelites, and with our latest breath seal the cardinal truth of our holy faith : t v t: I" •••: t: •• t : ■ Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is One. »^°