the heavenly ordinance of rest,

the open door of worship,

the record of Jesus’ resurrection,

the seal of the sabbath to come,

the day when saints militant and triumphant

unite in endless song.

I bless thee for the throne of grace,

that here free favour reigns;

that open access to it is through the blood

of Jesus;

that the veil is torn aside and I can enter

the holiest

and find thee ready to hear,

waiting to be gracious,

inviting me to pour out my needs,

encouraging my desires,

promising to give more than I ask or think.

But while I bless thee, shame and confusion

are mine:

I remember my past misuse of sacred things,

my irreverent worship,

my base ingratitude,

my cold, dull praise.

Sprinkle all my past sabbaths with the cleansing

blood of Jesus,

and may this day witness deep improvement

in me.

Give me in rich abundance

the blessings the Lord’s Day was designed

to impart;

May my heart be fast bound against worldly

thoughts or cares;

Flood my mind with peace

beyond understanding;

may my meditations be sweet,

my acts of worship life, liberty, joy,

my drink the streams that flow

from thy throne,

my food the precious Word,

my defence the shield of faith,

and may my heart be more knit to Jesus.