The changing centuries, O God,
Fulfil thy perfect thought:
The ancient paths the fathers trod
Are widening into highways broad
Because thy hand has wrought.

Our sires adored and worshipped thee,
Yet feared beneath thy rod;
And if with clearer eyes we see
Thy judgments with thy grace agree,
We bless thee, O our God.

They saw thee in the cloud and flame;
We see thee in the sun.

Thanks for the years, that aye proclaim
Thy justice and thy love the same,
And joy and duty one.

Dear Father, kind when most severe,
Most loving when most just:
To lead us through each changing year,
In pastures wide, by waters clear,
Thy guiding hand we trust.