By Frederick Whitfield (1855)
(Thank you to Susan and Stephen Zork for their beautiful rendition of this at the 50th Anniversary, May 30, 2020 event.)
In need Thee, precious Jesus, for I am very poor;
A stranger and a pilgrim, I have no earthly store.
I need the love of Jesus to cheer me on my way,
To guide my doubting footsteps, to be my strength and stay.
I need the heart of Jesus, to feel each anxious care,
To tell my every trial, and all my sorrows share.
I need the Holy Spirit to teach me what I am,
To show me more of Jesus, to point me to the Lamb.
I need Thee, precious Jesus, I hope to see Thee soon,
Encircled with the rainbow, and seated on Thy throne.
There, with Thy blood-bought children, my joy shall ever be
To sing Thy ceaseless praises, to gaze, my Lord, on Thee.