Читать книгу Best Loved Hymns and Readings - Martin Manser - Страница 22

This hymn was first published in 1878 and remains popular today. It links the breath of God with the Holy Spirit whose person and activity are vital at every stage of the Christian life, from new birth and yearning for purity and a Christ-like life, through to eternal life.

Breathe on me, Breath of God,

Fill me with life anew,

That I may love what Thou dost love,

And do what Thou wouldst do.

Breathe on me, Breath of God,

Until my heart is pure;

Until with Thee I will one will,

To do and to endure.

Breathe on me, Breath of God,

Till I am wholly Thine;

Until this earthly part of me

Glows with Thy fire divine.

Breathe on me, Breath of God:

So shall I never die,

But live with Thee the perfect life

Of Thine eternity.

Edwin Hatch (1835-89)