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Love Maria Willis was a doctor’s wife of Rochester, Mew York. Though a popular choice of hymn, the rendering of Psalm 23 in this hymn has raised some eyebrows over the years with its apparent contempt for the ‘green pastures’ and ‘still waters’ of the biblical source. In reality, the original psalm does not recommend the quiet life over one of righteous struggle.

Father, hear the prayer we offer;

Not for ease that prayer shall be,

But for strength that we may ever

Live our lives courageously.

Not for ever in green pastures

Do we ask our way to be;

But the steep and rugged pathway

May we tread rejoicingly.

Not for ever by still waters

Would we idly rest and stay;

But would smite the living fountains

From the rocks along our way.

Be our strength in hours of weakness,

In our wanderings be our guide;

Through endeavour, failure, danger,

Father, be Thou at our side.

Love Maria Willis (1824-1908)