Harriet Auber (1773–1862)

OUR blest Redeemer, ere He breathed

His tender last farewell,

A Guide, a Comforter bequeathed,

With us to dwell.

He came in semblance of a dove,

With sheltering wings outspread.

The holy balm of peace and love

On earth to shed.

He came in tongues of living flame,

To teach, convince, subdue;

All-powerful as the wind He came—

As viewless too.

He came sweet influence to impart,

A gracious, willing guest,

While He can find one humble heart

Wherein to rest.

And His that gentle voice we hear,

Soft as the breath of even,

That checks each fault, that calms each fear,

And speaks of Heaven.

And every virtue we possess,

And every victory won,

And every thought of holiness,

Are His alone.

Spirit of purity and grace,

Our weakness pitying see;

O make our hearts Thy dwelling-place,

And worthier Thee.