1 I know not what the future hath
Of marvel or surprise,
Assured alone that life and death
God's mercy underlies.

2 And if my heart and flesh are weak
To bear an untried pain,
The bruised reed He will not break
But strengthen and sustain.

3 And Thou, O Lord, by whom are seen
Thy creatures as they be,
Forgive me if too close I learn
My human heart on Thee.

4 And so beside the silent sea
I wait the muffled oar:
No harm from Him can come to me
On ocean or on shore.

5 I know not where His island lift
Their fronded palms in air;
I only know I cannot drift
Beyond His love and care.

Amen.