Help us to make this house which we have built,
Not just a senseless pile of wood or stone,
But, through Thy presence felt and understood,
An altar worthy to be called Thine own.
Could Jesus stand within these walls today,
Who would press in to him—an eager throng?
The maimed, the blind, the sick, the sorrowing,
The sinner struggling to be freed from wrong.
May we reflect anew God's healing grace
To those who enter through these portals wide,
Bring calm and healing to the troubled heart,
Nor let the lowliest seeker be denied.
If, like our Master, we be lifted up,
We, likewise, shall draw unto us all men,
And those who seemed bereft of peace or joy,
Will find hope springing fresh and sweet again.
Not selfishness nor pride of place and power,
But tender love alone proclaims abroad
That all may come and lay their burdens down
In this, the temple of the living God.
