Father, let me dedicate

by Lawrence Tuttiett, 1825–97

1  Father, let me dedicate
  All this year to thee,
In whatever worldly state
  Thou wilt have me be;
Not from sorrow, pain, or care,
  Freedom dare I claim;
This alone shall be my prayer,
  ‘Glorify thy Name.’
 
2  Can a child presume to choose
  Where or how to live?
Can a Father’s love refuse
  All the best to give?
More thou givest every day
  Than the best can claim;
Nor withholdest aught that may
  ‘Glorify thy Name.’
 
3  If thou callest to the cross,
  And its shadow come,
Turning all my gain to loss,
  Shrouding heart and home;
Let me think how thy dear Son
  To his glory came;
And it deepest woe pray on,
  ‘Glorify thy Name.’
 
4  If in mercy thou wilt spare
  Joys that yet are mine;
If on life, serene and fair,
  Brighter rays may shine;
Let my glad heart, while it sings,
  Thee in all proclaim;
And whate’er the future brings,   
  ‘Glorify thy Name.’
                               Amen.