1 How oft, alas! this wretched heart
Has wandered from the Lord;
How oft my roving thoughts depart,
Forgetful of his word.

2 Yet sovereign mercy calls, "Return;"
Dear Lord, and may I come?
My vile ingratitude I mourn,
Oh, take the wanderer home.

3 Almighty grace, thy healing power
How glorious, how divine,
That can to life and bliss restore
So vile a heart as mine.

4 Thy pardoning love, so free, so sweet,
Dear Saviour, I adore;
Oh, keep me at thy sacred feet,
And let me rove no more.