A Prayer For Spring

Though cloudy skies, and northern blasts,

Retard the gentle spring awhile;

The sun will conqu'ror prove at last,

And nature wear a vernal smile.

The promise, which from age to age,

Has brought the changing seasons round;

Again shall calm the winter's rage,

Perfume the air, and paint the ground.

Dear Lord, afford our souls a spring,

Thou know'st our winter has been long;

Shine forth, and warm our hearts to sing,

And thy rich grace shall be our song.

John Newton