Ash Wednesday

O Christ, whose tender mercy hears

Contrition’s humble sigh,
Whose hand indulgent, wipes the tears
From sorrow’s weeping eye.

See here, before your throne of grace,
A seeking wanderer mourn:
Have you not bid me seek your face?
Have you not said, “Return”?

Absent from you, my Guide, my Light!
Without one cheering ray,
Through dangers, fears, and gloomy nights,
How desolate my way!

O shine upon my weary heart,
With beams of mercy shine!
And let your healing voice impart
A taste of joys divine.

Anne Steele, 1760
Tune: BURFORD (C.M.)
Chetham's Psalmody, 1718



One (Calendar) Year Ago: Phoebe Knapp

Two (Liturgical) Yeara Ago: Ash Wednesday