1. Lord Jesus, who art come A Teacher sent from heaven And by both word and deed God's truth to us hast given, Thou wisely hast ordained The holy ministry That we, Thy flock, may know The way to God through thee. 2. Thou hast, O Lord, returned, To God's right hand ascending; Yet Thou art in the world, Thy kingdom here extending. Through preaching of Thy Word In every land and clime Thy people's faith is kept Until the end of time. 3. O blessed ministry Of reconciliation, That shows the way to God And brings to us salvation! By Thine evangel pure, Lord, Thou preserv'st Thy fold, Doest call, enlighten, keep, Dost comfort and uphold. 4. Preserve this ministry While harvest-days are keeping; And since the fields are white And hands are few for reaping, Send workers forth, O Lord, The sheaves to gather in That not a soul be lost Which Thou art come to win. 5. The servants Thou hast called And to Thy Church art giving Preserve in doctrine pure And holiness of living. Thy Spirit fill their hearts, Endue their tongues with power; What they should boldly speak, Oh, give them in that hour! 6. Yea, bless Thy Word alway, Our souls forever feeding; And may we never lack A faithful shepherd's leading! Seek Thou the wandering sheep, Bind up the sore opprest, Lift up the fallen ones, And grant the weary rest. 7. Bring those into Thy fold Who still to Thee are strangers; Guard those who are within Against offense and dangers. Press onward with Thy Word Till pastor and his fold Through faith in Thee, O Christ, Thy glory shall behold.