Scripture Verse

As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion. Psalm 133:3

Introduction

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John R. Macduff (1818–1895)

Words: John R. Mac­duff, Al­tar Stones (Lon­don: James Nis­bet, 1853), pag­es 24–25, alt.

Music: Ra­pha­el (Hop­kins) Ed­ward J. Hop­kins, 1862 (🔊 pdf nwc).

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Edward J. Hopkins (1818–1901)

Lyrics

From Thy habitation holy,
Spirit of all truth, descend,
While we sinners, poor and lowly,
At the throne of mercy bend;
Help our weakness—
And a gracious answer send!

Come Thou, as the dew of Hermon
Softly falls on Zion’s hill
Let us in Thy strength determine
Henceforth to obey Thy will—
Dwell within us—
Let Thy grace our bosoms fill.

Brooding o’er us as on chaos
Cause our darkness to retreat;
Shine into our hearts, and lay us
Humbled at the mercy-seat—
Guide us—use us
As Thy sovereign love sees meet.

When the heart is crushed and broken,
When bereavement dims the eye,
Let us claim the promise spoken
By those lips that cannot lie—
Blessèd Sav­ior,
Send Thy Spi­rit from on high.

When we tread the waves of Jordan,
O be near us, sacred Guest!
Seal to us our hope of pardon;
Dove-like o’er each billow’s crest
Do Thou hover—
Guiding to eter­nal rest!