O Lord of life, thy quickening voice
Awakes my morning song;
In gladsome words I would rejoice
That I to thee belong.

I see thy light, I feel thy wind;
Earth is thy uttered word;
Whatever wakes my heart and mind,
Thy presence is, my Lord.

Therefore I choose my highest part,
And turn my face to thee;
Therefore I stir my inmost heart
To worship fervently.

Within my heart speak, Lord, speak on,
My heart alive to keep,
Till comes the night, and, labour done,
In thee I fall asleep.


George MacDonald (1824-1905) alt.