1181. What joy, when all the talk

Author: Christopher Idle

What joy, when all the talk
is how things prosper well;
and when believers love to walk
in truth, with news to tell:

2.   When even strangers find
a welcome on their ways;
a church hospitable and kind,
a home of thankful praise:

3.   When those who once went out
to serve the one true Name
see faith replacing fear and doubt,
forgiveness drowning shame.

4.  And where this high ideal
seems harder to maintain,
Lord God, when we go wrong or fail
revive our health again!

5.  Hold us to what is good,
and bless our friends with peace;
your word be taught and understood,
your mercies never cease.