pleasing in Thy sight; for Christ's sake. Amen. Die gueldne Sonne. The sun, ascending, To us is lending Bliss, joy, and gladness, Cure for all sadness, Filling the world with its rich, golden light. I was reclining When no light was shining; But the sun's beauty Now calls me to duty, As I behold it so fair and so bright. Mine eye beholdeth What God unfoldeth: Heaven's bright glory Tells me the story Of His unlimited power and love, And how the sainted In beauty untainted, Free from things mortal, Beyond death's dark portal, Dwell in the heavenly mansions above. To God in heaven Be praises given; Come, let us offer And gladly proffer To the Creator the gifts that we prize. He well receiveth A heart that believeth, Hymns that adore Him Are precious before Him And to His throne like sweet incense arise. At the day's ending Sweet slumbers sending, And in the morning All things adorning, These are His works and His blessings so true. When night descendeth Protection He lendeth When morn appeareth Our spirits He cheereth, Causing His mercy to crown us anew. Father above me, Thou who dost love me, Bless my beginning, Keep me from sinning, Move ev'ry hindrance well out of my way. Strength ever lend me, From Satan defend me, Spare me temptation, So that in my station I may Thy holy commandments obey. Let me with pleasure See the full measure Which upon others, Who are my brothers, Thou of Thy blessings dost richly bestow. Bid envy vanish! All greediness banish! Make me Thy dwelling, Sin's darkness dispelling. Grant that in virtue I daily may grow. What is man's being? It is like seeing Autumn's bleak shadows Sweep o'er the meadows When the cold winds drive the clouds on their way. All that we cherish Must crumble and perish. Plants must stop growing, And stars must cease glowing; Heaven and earth are not destined to stay. All else decayeth, God only stayeth, He of creation Is the foundation. His will and word must forever abide. His grace endureth And for us secureth Comfort in sorrow And help for the morrow, Keeping us cheerful, whate'er may betide. God of creation, Be my salvation! Calm all my terrors, Blot out my errors, Grant that Thy pardon I fully may share; Withal attend me, Rule, guide, and defend me In mercy tender, Because I surrender Soul, will, and all to Thy fatherly care.