"He restoreth my soul."

When we started on our journey,
From the foot of Calvary's cross
Through this world, it was as pilgrims,
'Twas no longer home to us.
Just as Abram left his country,
In obedience to God's word,
So we left our all, to follow
In the footsteps of the Lord.

Have we followed, or like Israel,
Have we chosen our own way?
And, like sheep without a shepherd,
From His leading gone astray?
Have we settled down contented
Where the world gave Him no place?
Have we dealt with one another
In all patience, and all grace?

Have we found the path too narrow
For our restless, wayward feet?
Have we longings which the Master
In His judgment deems unmeet?
Have we really forgotten
How in grace He did define,
"By your love for one another
All shall know that ye are Mine?"

Much we fear we've lost our bearings,
And our chart have failed to use,
For a pilgrim's not a wanderer,
And his path he may not choose.
God has marked it out, and chosen
We should walk with Him therein,
Lest the world with smiles entice us,
And entangle us in sin.

Looking backward o'er the pathway,
Let us ponder carefully
Where we left the path of blessing,
When we one time walked with Thee.
Owning all our faults and failure,
Grant us mercy ere Thou'lt come
To redeem Thy purchased treasure,
And to bear us to Thy Home.

May we own with deep contrition
We are covered with our shame,
And in wilful disobedience
Brought dishonor to Thy name.
For Thy name's sake, Lord, we pray Thee,
Save Thy people further wrong,
And restoring us in mercy,
Give once more a gladsome song. H. McDowell