VAIN the toiling of the builder Where a home knows not the Lord; Vain the watching over loved ones Where there is no help from God.
Vain are all the years of labour, Times of trial and distress, And, without God’s love and favour, Vain the talents we possess.
Vainer still the hopes of Heaven That on human strength rely; But to them shall help be given Who in humble faith apply.
Let us seek the Lord’s Anointed, And His pardon, life and peace; Souls are never disappointed Who, through Christ, their prayer address.
May our lives bring light and blessing And redemption to the young; May they, Jesus’ love confessing, Swell the everlasting song.
Harriet Auber, 1773-1862