Lord, in love and perfect wisdom

1 Lord, You in Your perfect wisdom
times and seasons all arrange,
working out Your changeless purpose
in a world of ceaseless change;
You did form our ancient nation,
guiding it through all the days,
to unfold in it Your purpose
to Your glory and Your praise.

2 To our shores remote, benighted,
barrier of the western waves,
tidings in Your love You sent us,
tidings of the cross that saves.
Saints and heroes strove and suffered
here Your gospel to proclaim;
we, the heirs of their endeavour,
tell the honour of their name.

3 Still Your ancient purpose standing
every change and chance above;
still Your ancient Church remaining,
witness to Your changeless love.
Grant us vision, Lord, and courage
to fulfil Your work begun;
in the Church and in the nation,
King of kings, Your will be done.

Source: The Irish Presbyterian Hymnbook #610