JESUS, tender, loving Shepherd,
To thyself I lift mine eye!
Since thou hast in mercy taught me,
Thou didst come to earth to die,
Much I love thee,
Thou hast made me full of joy.
Once my heart was sad and fearful,
Knowing not thy precious love,
Knowing not the great salvation,
Brought in mercy from above;
Then I feared thee,
Then against thee, Lord, I strove.
Now, dear, loving, tender Shepherd,
By thy precious blood brought nigh,
‘Tis my happiness to praise thee,
‘Tis my constant sweet employ;
Blessed Shepherd,
In thy bosom let me lie.
Folded there, I dread no evil,
Sheltered there, no harm I fear;
Safe is every lamb, though feeble,
‘Neath the Shepherd’s watchful care;
Loving Shepherd,
Keep me till thou dost appear!
A. M.