“Adoration of the One True God,” by Sir John Bowring, 1792-1872

Ancient of Ages! humbly bent before Thee,
Songs of glad homage, Lord! to Thee we bring:
Touched by thy spirit, oh! teach us to adore Thee,
Sole God and Father! Everlasting King!
Let Thy light attend us,
Let Thy grace befriend us,
Eternal, Unrivaled, All-directing King!

Send forth Thy mandate, gather in the nations,
Through the wide universe Thy name be known:
Millions of voices shall join in adorations,
Join to adore Thee, Undivided One!
Every soul invited,
Every voice united,
United to praise Thee, Undivided One!

“Father, Glorify Thy Name” by Sir John Bowring

Father! glorify Thy name,”
Whatsoe’er our portion be;
Wheresoever led by Thee,
If to glory—if to shame—
“Father! glorify Thy name.”

Let Thy name be glorified!
If in doubt and darkness lost,
Hope deceived, and purpose crost,
Nought amiss can e’er betide—
Let Thy name be glorified!

“Father! glorify Thy name;”
Vain and blind our wishes are:
This can be no idle prayer,
This can be no worthless claim,
“Father! glorify Thy name.”

Sir John Bowring was a poet and hymn writer in the Victorian era of British history who evidenced a heart for our God. Also a prominent statesman, Bowring served two stints in British Parliament. In 1849 Bowring became British consul at Canton and superintendent of trade in China. In 1854 he was assigned as the governor of Hong Kong. Around this time Bowring successfully negotiated a trade treaty between Britain and Siam, now Thailand. In 1861 he began serving as a British commissioner in the kingdom of Italy.

Picture via author, Mutt Lake, Beartooth Lakes High Route, Beartooth Range, Wyoming