1 HEAVENLY Father, thou hast brought us Safely to the present day, Gently leading on our footsteps, Watching o’er us all the way. Friend and guide through life’s long journey, Grateful hearts to thee we bring; But for love so true and changeless How shall we fit praises sing? 2 Mercies new and never-failing Brightly shine through all the past, Watchful care and loving kindness, Always near from first to last, Tender love, divine protection Ever with us day and night; Blessings more than we can number Strew the path with golden light. 3 Shadows deep have crossed our pathway; We have trembled in the storm; Clouds have gathered round so darkly That we could not see thy form; Yet thy love hath never left us In our griefs alone to be, And the help each gave the other Was the strength that came from thee. 4 Many that we loved have left us, Reaching first their journey’s end; Now they wait to give us welcome, Brother, sister, child and friend. When at last our journey’s over, And we pass away from sight, Father, take us through the darkness Into everlasting light.