HYMN NO. 244

1 O be with us, gracious father,
While before thy feet we bow,
Let the angel of thy presence
Hover o’er thy temple now.

2 Here are hearts that thou canst soften
Earthly dross to purge away;
Darkened minds, on which thy spirit
Yet may pour celestial day.

3 From the world’s entrancing vision
From the spirit’s sullen night
From the tempter’s dark dominion
Free us, by thy saving might

4 Let thy spirit glad communion
Waken thoughts of peace and love
And prepare us for thy presence
In the nobler courts above.

5 There to join in perfect worship
There to swell the angel’s song
And in higher, sweeter measure
Earth’s imperfect praise prolong