The Old Road to Paradise/Father-Prayer

by Margaret Widdemer

FATHER PRAYER

Lord God, Who let Your baby son
 Pass earthward where the joys were few
To a hard death when all was done,
 And very far away from You;

My little lad must go today
 Paths where I cannot guide his feet,
Through dangers that I cannot stay
 To strife I cannot help him meet;

He has heard voices calling him
 Though youth is gay and life is warm,
And right seems far away and dim,
 To weary ways and battle-storm:

Lord God, Whose Son went steadily
 Down the hard road He had to tread,
Guard my son too, that he may be
 Strong in his hours of doubt and dread!