613. C. M. Heginbotham. Praising God in all Changes.

1 Father of mercies, God of love,
My Father and my God!
I'll sing the honors of thy name;
And spread thy praise abroad.

2 In every period of my life,
Thy thoughts of love appear;
Thy mercies gild each transient scene,
And crown each lengthening year.

3 In all these mercies may my soul
A father's bounty see:
Nor let the gifts thy grace bestows
Estrange my heart from thee.

4 Then will I close my eyes in death,
Free from distressing fear;
For death itself is life, my God,
If thou art with me there.