The Fruits of Peace and Joy

It's been a rough winter here this year, as well as in many other places, and I'm really looking forward to spring. We have some time before it's here, but in the meantime, we can think about sprouting seeds and growing plants.

Almighty God, your Word is cast
Like seed upon the ground,
Now let the dews of heaven descend
And righteous fruits abound.

Let not our selfishness and hate
This holy seed remove:
But give it root in every heart,
To bring forth fruits of love.

Let not our unimportant cares
The rising plant destroy,
But let it yield a hundred-fold
The fruits of peace and joy.

Oft as the precious seed is sown,
Your quick'ning grace bestow;
That all whose souls the truth receive
Its saving power may know.

John Cawood, 1815; alt.
Tune: ST. MAGNUS (C.M.)
Jeremiah Clarke, 1709;
harm. William H. Monk, 1868