Let Us Pray

[note: A precious memory is associated with these words. The voice that uttered them is silent now but the solemnity of their utterance has not passed away. The [below] is a feeble attempt to give it something like permanency.]
Bow the head in supplication,
Lowly, penitent, sincere,
Worthiest of adoration,
God, the Holy One is here! -
Here, while through the open casement
Gently beams the rising day,
While, in contrite self abasement,
Rev'rently we kneel and pray!
Let us pray! - we're weak and weary,
Faint of heart and slow of limb,
Over mountains dark and dreary
Lies our pathway - narrow, dim,
Thorn beset and demon-haunted,
Steep and slipp'ry is the way,
Would we tread it all undaunted,
Firm of footstep? - let us pray!
Let us pray! - on every spirit,
Secret, solemn records lie,
Of transgression and demerit,
On'y seen by God's pure eye, -
Secret sins, desires unholy,
Thoughts impure that once held sway, -
Oh, in penitence most lowly,
Deeply contrite, let us pray!
Let us pray! - we need forgiveness, -
Strength and patience to endure, -
For our arduous labors fitness, -
Spirits consecrate and pure,
Shelter need when storms are round us, -
Bread of Heavenly life each day, -
Help when hidden snares surround us, -
Guidance always - let us pray!