Hold me fast by Thee

Lilias Trotter (1853-1928), a sketch in her journal

Lover of all, I hold me fast by Thee,

Ruler of time, King of eternity.

There is no great with Thee, there is no small,

For Thou art all, and fillest all in all.

The new-born world swings forth at Thy command,

The falling dew-drop falls into Thy hand.

God of the firmament's mysterious powers,

I see Thee thread the minutes of my hours.

I see Thee guide the frail, the fading moon

That walks alone through empty skies at noon.

Was ever wayworn, lonely traveler

But had Thee by him, blessed Comforter?

Out of my vision swims the untracked star,

Thy counsels too are high and very far,

Only I know, God of the nebulae,

It is enough to hold me fast by Thee.

 Amy Carmichael (1867-1951)