God of Compassion, in Mercy Befriend Us

God of compassion, in mercy befriend us,
giver of grace for our needs all-availing.
Wisdom and strength for each day ever send us,
patience untiring and courage unfailing.

Though we are lost, you have sought us and found us,
stilled our rude hearts with your word of consoling.
Wrap now your peace, like a mantle, around us,
guarding our thoughts and our passions controlling.

How shall we stray, with your hand to direct us,
you who the stars in their courses are guiding?
What shall we fear, with your power to protect us,
we who walk forth in your greatness confiding?