A Testimony from Francis Scott Key

Yesterday for offertory in church we sang this testimony of Francis Scott Key, the author of our national anthem. What a blessing to know that he was passionate about his country as well as passionate in his love for God. Sometimes reading the words impact our minds more than when we just sing them. What a testimony! May it be my passion as well.

Lord, with glowing heart I'd praise thee for the bliss thy love bestows,
For the pardoning grace that saves me, and the peace that from it flows.
Help, O God, my weak endeavor, this dull soul to rapture raise,
thou must light the flame or never can my love be warmed to praise.

Praise, my soul, the God that sought thee, wretched wanderer far astray,
found thee lost, and kindly brought thee from the paths of death away.
Praise, with love's devoutest feeling, him who saw thy guiltborn fear,
and, the light of hope revealing, bade the blood-stained cross appear.

Praise thy Savior God that drew thee to that cross, new life to give,
held a blood-sealed pardon to thee, bade thee look to him and live.
Praise the grace whose threats alarmed thee, roused thee from they fatal ease.
Praise the grace whose promise warmed thee, praise the grace that whispered peace.

Lord, this bosom's ardent feeling vainly would my lips express.
Low before thy footstool kneeling, deign thy suppliant's prayer to bless.
Let thy love, my soul's chief treasure, love's pure flame within me raise.
And since words can never measure, let my life show forth thy praise!