Gracious Saviour, Gentle Shepherd

1. Gracious Saviour, gentle shepherd,
Little ones are dear to Thee;
Gathered with Thine arms and carried
In Thy bosom may they be,
Sweetly, fondly, safely tended,
From all want and danger free.

2. Tender shepherd, never leave them
From Thy fold to go astray;
By Thy look of love directed
May they walk the narrow way;
Then direct them and protect them
Lest they fall to sin a prey.

3. Let Thy holy word instruct them,
Fill their minds with heavenly light,
Let Thy love and grace constrain them
To approve whate'er is right:
Let them feel Thy yoke is easy,
Let them prove Thy burden light.

4. Taught to voice the holy praises,
Which on earth Thy children sing,
Both with lips and hearts unfeigned
Glad thanksgiving may they bring;
Then with all Thy saints in glory
Join to praise their Lord and King.