What is there not to say in prayer,
O Lord, to you who knows all things,
Who reads the heart’s covert intent,
The baseless fears to which man clings?
To ask forgiveness, plead for strength,
To intercede for another’s cause,
To seek the Kingdom’s fast increase,
For such and many more we pause.
By prayer we see a larger world,
Than my pursuits, than me and mine;
We see as well your power at work,
Your forceful love, and no mere sign.
Away with all that hinders prayer!
Remove from us those cares that kill
Desire to ask, to thank, to praise —
Our help and life is your way and will.