I WILL ARISE AND GO TO MY FATHER.

 
DECEMBER 23.
 

I will arise and go to my father.
Luke 15:18 

 
WHAT a mercy to have a father.
 
A father to whom we can go.
 
A father who will receive us, bless us,
  and make us happy.
 
Like the prodigal we have been wandering from him,
  we have grieved his loving heart,
  we have dishonored his glorious name,
  we have reduced ourselves to want and wretchedness;
  let us now arise and go to our heavenly Father,
  he will pardon our crimes,
  restore us to his favour,
  supply all our wants, and
    raise us to dignity and honour.
 
Have we been reconciled to him, and
  are we living at peace with him?
 
Then, whenever Satan assaults us,
  or fears be set us,
  or trouble oppress us,
  or our hearts are cast down within us,
    let us arise and go to our Father.
 
Let us go to him for all we need,
  with all that troubles us,
    notwithstanding all that opposes us.
 
He bids us come often.
 
He wishes us to be free.
 
He has promised to sympathize with us.
 
He is always ready to help us.
 
He will bless us this day.
 
O Lord, draw us to thy feet,
  keep us near thy throne, and
  indulge us with thy smile,
  fill us with joy and peace, and
    cause us to live to thy glory and praise!
 
O for living, lively faith!
 
Lord, increase our faith.
 

Faith lends its realizing light,

The clouds disperse, the shadows fly,

Th’ invisible appears in sight,

And God is seen by mortal eye.

 
James Smith 1849