Edmund Clarence Stedman, ed. (1833–1908). An American Anthology, 1787–1900. 1900.

By Oliver WendellHolmes

256 Hymn of Trust

O LOVE Divine, that stooped to share

Our sharpest pang, our bitterest tear,

On Thee we cast each earth-born care,

We smile at pain while Thou art near!

Though long the weary we tread,

And sorrow crown each lingering year,

No path we shun, no darkness dread,

Our hearts still whispering, Thou art near!

When drooping pleasure turns to grief,

And trembling faith is changed to fear,

The murmuring wind, the quivering leaf,

Shall softly tell us, Thou art near!

On Thee we fling our burdening woe,

O Love Divine, forever dear,

Content suffer while we know,

Living and dying, Thou art near!