Chorale Book for England

As a bird at dawning singeth

In the woods or meadows fair,

Till the lonely forest ringeth,

And it fills the summer air,

So my heart to Thee would raise,

O my God, its song of praise,

That the gloom of night is waning,

And the Sun once more is reigning.

Sun of Love, when Thou dost greet me

All my heart with joy is stirr'd;

And it upward flies to meet Thee,

Gladsome as yon little bird.

Shine Thou in me clear and bright,

Till I learn to praise Thee right;

On the narrow way now speed me,

Let not darkness e'er mislead me.

Bless to-day what I am doing,

Bless whate'er I have and love;

With the morn my powers renewing,

Let me ne'er from virtue rove;

By Thy Spirit strengthen me

In the faith that leads to Thee,

So through life to journey fearless,

Heir of heaven, to glories peerless.