1 Though I speak with angel tongues
Bravest words of strength and fire,
They are but as idle songs
If no love my heart inspire;
All the eloquence shall pass
As the noise of sounding brass.

2 Though I lavish all I have,
On the poor in charity,
Though I shrink not from the grave,
Or unmoved the stake can see,
Till by love the work be crowned,
All shall profitless be found.

3 Come, thou Spirit of pure love,
Who didst forth from God proceed,
Never from my heart remove;
Let me all thy impulse heed,
Let my heart henceforward be
Moved, controlled, inspired by thee.