In life’s earnest morning,
When our hope was high,
Came Thy voice to summons,
Not to be put by;
Nor in toil nor sorrow,
Weakness or dismay,
Need we ever falter—
Art not Thou our stay?

Teach us, Lord, Thy wisdom,
While we seek men’s lore;
May the mind be humbled
As we know Thee more;
Let the larger vision
Bring the childlike heart,
And our deeper knowledge
Holier zeal impart.

Should Thy face be clouded
To our spirits’ sight,
Speak thro’ human kindness,
Shine thro’ nature’s light,
In the face of loved ones,
Or the ties of home—
Only, gracious Father,
To Thy children come.

Save us, Lord, from seeking
Earth’s unhallowed goals;
May our lifelong passion
Pe the love of souls;
Let us live and labor,
Father, in Thy sight,
Thro’ the grace of Jesus,
By the Spirit’s might.