CCCLXX. A Church seeking Direction from God in the Choice of a Pastor.

SHEPHERD of Israel, bend thine Ear,
Thy Servants Groans indulgent hear;
Perplex'd, distress'd, to Thee we cry,
And seek the Guidance of thine Eye.

Thy comprehensive View surveys
Our wand'ring Paths, our trackless Ways;
Send forth, O LORD, thy Truth and Light,
To guide our doubtful Footsteps right.

With longing Eyes, behold, we wait
In suppliant Crouds at Mercy's Gate:
Our drooping Hearts, O GOD, sustain:
Shall Israel seek thy Face in vain?

O LORD, in Ways of Peace return,
Nor let thy Flock neglected mourn;
May our blest Eyes a Shepherd see,
Dear to our Souls, and dear to Thee.

Fed by his Care, our Tongues shall raise
A chearful Tribute to thy Praise;
Our Children learn the grateful Song,
And theirs the chearful Notes prolong.