ALTAR STONES.

BY THE AUTHOR OF

"THE FAITHFUL PROMISER," "MORNING AND
NIGHT WATCHES," &c. &c.

"These Stones shall be for a Memorial."-JOSHUA iv. 7.

LONDON:

JAMES NISBET AND CO., 21 BERNERS STREET.

MDCCCLIII.

147.0.271.

PREFACE.

Ir was suggested to the author that a little volume of original hymns, simple in thought and diction, so as to be suitable for plain readers, was required to complete the series of devotional works referred to in the title page.

In order to vary the form from books of a similar character, words and scenes of sacred association

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STONES OF REMEMBRANCE

have been made suggestive of thought for each day of the month. Though principally designed for private use, it is hoped, as the title may indicate, that these Stones may also be adapted, in whole or in part, for The Family Altar.

"Whoso offereth praise, glorifieth me."

PENTECOST

And when the day of PENTECOST was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting." -Acts ii. 1, 2.

"He shall come down like rain upon the mown grass, as showers that water the earth."-Psalm 1xxii. f

O THOU! who hast a temple shrine
In every lowly, contrite soul,
Spirit of God! these lips of mine
Touch with a living altar-coal.

No costly rites need I prepare,

No rich oblations need I bring;
The humble heart, the fervent prayer,
Are Thine accepted offering.

Guide to all truth, vouchsafe Thine aid,
Control my thoughts, direct my way;

May holy fear of Thee pervade
The varied duties of each day.

Ere I begin life's "common task," Hush'd be its feverish cares a while, That calm reposing I may bask,

Eternal One! beneath Thy smile.

Giver and Source of peace divine,
Thy will submissive would I wait;
Each pulse of heavenly life is Thine,
Descend, thou promised Paraclete !

Not as of old, in awful power,

With rushing wind and lambent fire, But gently, like the falling shower,

Great Spirit, come! my soul inspire!