GENTLY, gently lay Thy rod On my sinful head, O God; Stay Thy wrath, in mercy stay, Lest I sink before its sway.
Heal me, for my flesh is weak; Heal me, for Thy grace I seek; This my only plea I make, Heal me for Thy mercy’s sake.
Who within the silent grave Shall proclaim Thy power to save? Lord, my trembling soul reprieve, Speak, and I shall rise and live.
Lo! He comes! He heeds my plea! Lo! He comes! the shadows flee! Glory round me dawns once more; Rise, my spirit, and adore!
Henry Francis Lyte, 1793-1847