I've seen a shepherd following his flock

I've seen a shepherd following his flock
Weary and faint, from flow'ry rock to rock,
And sigh'd to think that while his charge were blest
He only wanted time for food and rest.
I therefore mourn not when some change doth lay
The shepherd's gear, and shepherd's crook aside,
And as a sheep I 'mid green pastures stray,
And rest, and drink where stilly waters glide,
And hear the message I've so often taught,
And learn experience of too wand'ring thought,
And feel the need of being what I ought
To be — an humble worshipper — no more —
And yet what higher could be? — bent before
The Throne of the Redeemer I adore?