At Parting

As the sun's enliv'ning eye
Shines on every place the same;
So the LORD is always nigh
To the souls that love his name.

When they move at duty's call,
He is with them by the way;
He is ever with them all,
Those who go, and those who stay.

From his holy mercy-seat
Nothing can their souls confine;
Still in spirit they may meet,
And in sweet communion join.

For a season called to part,
Let us then ourselves commend
To the gracious eye and heart,
Of our ever-present Friend.

Jesus, hear our humble prayer!
Tender Shepherd of thy sheep!
Let thy mercy and thy care
All our souls in safety keep.

In thy strength may we be strong,
Sweeten every cross and pain;
Give us, if we live, ere long
Here to meet in peace again.

Then, if thou thy help afford,
Ebenezers shall be reared;
And our souls shall praise the Lord
Who our poor petitions heard.