Classic Poem

I.

How ost, alas, this wretched heart
Has wandered from the Lord!
How ost my roving thoughts depart,
Forgetful of his word!

II.

Yet sovereign mercy calls, Return:
Dear Lord, and may I come!
My vile ingratitude I mourn;
Oh take the wanderer home.

III.

And canst thou, wilt thou yet forgive,
And bid my crimes remove?
And shall a pardon'd rebel live
To speak thy wonderous love!

IV.

Almighty grace, thy healing power
How glorious how divine!
That can to life and bliss restore
So vile a heart as mine.

V.

Thy pardoning love, so free, so sweet,
Dear Saviour, I adore;
O keep me at thy sacred feet,
And let me rove no more.