I love Thy kingdom, Lord, The house of Thine abode, The church our blessed Redeemer saved With His own precious blood. I love Thy church, O God. Her walls before Thee stand, Dear as the apple of Thine eye, And written on Thy hand. If e’er to bless Thy sons My voice or hands deny, These hands let useful skills forsake, This voice in silence die. Should I with scoffers join Her altars to abuse? No! Better far my tongue were dumb, My hand its skill should lose. For her my tears shall fall For her my prayers ascend, To her my cares and toils be given Till toils and cares shall end. Beyond my highest joy I prize her heavenly ways, Her sweet communion, solemn vows, Her hymns of love and praise. Jesus, Thou Friend divine, Our Savior and our King, Thy hand from every snare and foe Shall great deliverance bring. Sure as Thy truth shall last, To Zion shall be given The brightest glories earth can yield And brighter bliss of Heaven. |