C.M.
1
Afflictions, though they seem severe,
In mercy oft are sent;
They stopped the prodigal’s career,
And forced him to repent.
2
Although he no relentings felt
Till he had spent his store;
His stubborn heart began to melt
When famine pinched him sore.
3
“What have I gained by sin” (he said)
“But hunger, shame, and fear?
My father’s house abounds with bread
While I am starving here.
4
“I’ll go and tell him all I’ve done
And fall before his face;
Unworthy to be called his son,
I’ll seek a servant’s place.”
5
His father saw him coming back,
He saw, and ran, and smiled;
And threw his arms around the neck
Of his rebellious child.
6
“Father, I’ve sinned, but, O forgive!”
“I’ve heard enough,” he said,
“Rejoice, my house, my son’s alive,
For whom I mourned as dead.
7
“Now let the fatted calf be slain,
And spread the news around;
My son was dead, but lives again,
Was lost, but now is found.”
8
’Tis thus the Lord His love reveals,
To call poor sinners home;
More than a father’s love He feels,
And welcomes all that come.
