THE FIRST CHRISTIAN HYMN
It is said that the Christian hymnology now exceeds 400,000 hymns; and the very first of all, which follows (in the translation of Edw. P. Weston), is found in the Creek of Clement of Alexandria, but is of still earlier date. It is remarkable that the first recorded outburst of Christian song should be fragrant with the thought of little worshippers.
Christ! of tender lambs the Leader,
Shelter of each nestling bird,
Of our young the Guide and Pleader,
Let our song to Thee be heard;
While sweet praises each voice raises
To the everlasting Word.
King of saints, the all-prevailing
Message of the Father's grace,
Lord of wisdom, grief-assailing
Saviour of our mortal race;
Shepherd Jesus, guide and lead us
To Thy heavenly pasture-place.
Fisher in the sea of mortals,
Whom Thy grace alone can save,
Luring us from death's dark portals,
Luring from the hostile wave;
With Thy life so sweet and tender,
Save Thy saints, O Christ, we crave.
Lead, O King, to life eternal,
In the footsteps Thou hast trod,
In the heavenly way supernal,
Strength of those who worship God;
Fount of mercy, virtue's Author,
Lead us with Thy staff and rod.
For Thy lowly life of teaching,
Find Thou here Thy blest reward.
While the children, heavenward reaching,
Sing the praises of their Lord;
Children tender, their Defender
Praising in divine accord.
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