University of Virginia Library

HYMN LXXIX.

[Lover of little children, Thee]

Lover of little children, Thee,
O Jesus, we adore;
Our kind and loving Saviour be,
Both now and evermore.
O take us up into Thine arms,
And we are truly bless'd;
Thy new-born babes are safe from harms,
While harbour'd in Thy breast.
There let us ever, ever sleep,
Strangers to guilt and care;
Free from the world of evil, keep
Our tender spirits there.

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Still, as we grow in years, in grace
And wisdom let us grow;
But never leave Thy dear embrace,
But never evil know.
Strong let us in Thy grace abide,
But ignorant of ill;
In malice, subtlety, and pride
Let us be children still.
Lover of little children, Thee,
O Jesus, we adore;
Our kind and loving Saviour be
Both now and evermore.