A Christmas home

O give us homes built firm upon the savior,

Where christ is head and counsellor and guide;

Where every child is taught his love and favor

And gives his heart to christ, the crucified:

How sweet to know that though his footsteps waver

His faithful lord is walking by his side!

O give us homes with godly fathers, mothers,

Who always place their hope and trust in him;

Whose tender patience turmoil never bothers,

Whose calm and courage trouble cannot dim;

A home where each finds joy in serving others,

And love still shines, tho days be dark and grim

O lord, our god, our homes are thine forever!

We trust to thee their problems, toil, and care;

Their bands of love no enemy can sever

If thou art always lord and master there:

Be thou the center of our least endeavor,

Be thou our guest, our hearts and homes to share.

(Barbara b. Hart)