Father may we ask a blessing

1 Father may we ask a blessing
From thy gracious throne to-day
On our number here assembled,
And the cause for which we pray
While in concert we adore thee,
For the precious means of grace.
We would plead for heathen nations,
Those who never sought thy face.

2 Could they feel thy pardoning mercy,
Could they taste thy love so free,
The would leave their senseless idols,
They would worship only thee,
Bring, O bring them, we implore thee,
To the pure and perfect way,
Break the cruel chain that binds them
Turn their darkness into day.

3 Send thy gospel o'er the billow,
Let thy joyful tidings roll,
Like a vast and boundless river,
Spreading wide from pole to pole,
Aid thy servants in their labor,
Strengthen every pious heart,
Give them zeal and heavenly wisdom,
In thy work to bear a part.

Source: The Plymouth Sabbath School Collection of Hymns and Tunes #210