Fifth Sunday in Lent

The world is bright, but I am sad
Thy pain, my Lord, to see,
I would not, if I could, be glad
When Thou art grieved for me.

To Thee sweet birds with tuneful voice
Sing praise from every tree,
I would not, if I could, rejoice
When Thou dost weep for me.

The fields their vernal bloom display.
But, though so bright they be,
I would not, if I could, be gay
When Thou art sad for me.

Sunshine o'er all, yet life is dull,
The shadow falls from Thee,
I would not, if I could, be full
When Thou dost fast for me.

Beside Thee in the wilderness
My place of love shall be.
Sharing in all the deep distress
Thou dost endure for me:

Beside Thee in the wilderness.
In watch, and fast, and prayer.
Thy steps to guide. Thy love to bless,
My only peace is there.

Yet O, how blest the chasten'd choice.
If peace indeed may be,
I would not, if I could, rejoice
When Thou art sad for me.