Let Us Pray

[note: A precious memory is associated with these words. The voice that uttered them is silent now but the solemnity of their utterance has not passed away. The [below] is a feeble attempt to give it something like permanency.]     Bow the head in supplication,         Lowly, penitent, sincere,     Worthiest of adoration,         God, the Holy One is here! -     Here, while through the open casement         Gently beams the rising day,     While, in contrite self abasement,         Rev'rently we kneel and pray!     Let us pray! - we're weak and weary,         Faint of heart and slow of limb,     Over mountains dark and dreary         Lies our pathway - narrow, dim,     Thorn beset and demon-haunted,         Steep and slipp'ry is the way,     Would we tread it all undaunted,         Firm of footstep? - let us pray!     Let us pray! - on every spirit,         Secret, solemn records lie,     Of transgression and demerit,         On'y seen by God's pure eye, -     Secret sins, desires unholy,         Thoughts impure that once held sway, -     Oh, in penitence most lowly,         Deeply contrite, let us pray!     Let us pray! - we need forgiveness, -         Strength and patience to endure, -     For our arduous labors fitness, -         Spirits consecrate and pure,     Shelter need when storms are round us, -         Bread of Heavenly life each day, -     Help when hidden snares surround us, -         Guidance always - let us pray!