A happy little maiden
Was singing at her play,
“I know that Jesus loves me
Has washed my sins away.”
A poor old man was passing,
And stopped to hear her sing,
“What is it that makes you happy,
You cheery little thing?
If only I were younger,
And death were not so nigh,
I’m very, very fearful
That soon I’ll have to die,
My happy days are over,
Because I’m getting old.”
May’s eves were opened wider,
Surprise had made her bold.
“Why should you be unhappy,
For if you are forgiven
(They surely can’t have told you)
You soon will be in heaven?
Why, if you love the Saviour,
You’d surely want to go
To that bright, golden city —
It’s better there, you know:
There is no pain nor sadness,
But all is bright and fair,
And all the street is golden
And you’ll see Jesus there.”
The old man’s heart was broken,
And tears ran down his face,
No! No! I’ve heard it often,
I’ve spurned the day of Grace!”
May’s tender heart was troubled,
She did not understand,
She said, “I am so sorry,
Here, take hold of my hand,
I wish you knew it sooner,
We’ll ask in Jesus Name.
He is so kind and loving,
He’ll take you just the same,
He says that him that cometh
He never will cast out.”
The old man prayed with sobbing,
“No longer, Lord, I’ll doubt,
I’ll trust Thee to receive me,
And cleanse me from my sin.”
Salvation’s door was open,
The old man stepped within.
ML 07/07/1946