God of old, whom saints and sages, priests and prophets, trembling heard, at whose voice, in distant ages, hearts with dread and wonder stirred, still to us in Scripture's pages speaks his true and living word. Word of grace and peace, extending mercy to our souls' despair, word of firm assurance, lending wings of faith to fervent prayer, word of loving power, defending children of our Father's care. Word of God in flesh declaring love that stoops to human aid, Lamb of God our burden bearing till the price of sin was paid, Son of God our nature sharing, in the Scriptures stand portrayed. Gracious word of invitation, promised pledge of hope restored, royal law for all creation, lamp of life and Spirit's sword, tell of Christ, our souls' salvation, Christ the Scriptures' theme and Lord.