Lost Prodigals

A prodigal

no need I sensed

For God my folks had known;

The world’s allure enticed me thence;

Its friendship close had grown.

My emptiness relentless still

I searched

but naught did find.

Confused

I tried whatever thrilled;

It more my void defined.

God’s vessels kind would not forget

This poor soul

most decried.

A God so real

through them I met;

I could no more deny.

Alone

distressed

from peace apart

I for God’s solace yearned;

Their tender love warmed up my heart

Until it Godward turned.

O precious faith! O sweetest love!

O joy beyond compare!

Life’s every turn God’s mercy proved

Unfailing

secret care.

Yet God would know my dreams remained;

I craved what earthlings craved.

By mercy I God’s vision gained;

His goal my path re-paved.

E’en if I take the wings of dawn

At ocean’s limits dwell*

God faithful

wise

will lead me on

His searchings keep me well.

My heart o’erflows with songs of praise;

God’s mercy is my crown.

His love a wretched soul embraced

Transforms to glory-bound.

Go forth! Our Shepherd yearns that more

Lost prodigals we’d find

Into each wounded heart outpour

Fresh

timely oil and wine!

Search out the weak

the wayward

lost;

In meekness bring them home!

Warm

tender love they need the most

And God’s acceptance shown.

The Lord is pleased to build His home

In every contrite heart;

The feeble in His hand become

His warring counterpart.

Christ will all Satan’s work efface

Through wisdom full and grace;

The church will e’er His foe disgrace

To universal praise!