On this Fifth Sunday of Lent here are words from a beloved old hymn for our minds and hearts to contemplate, written by deeply spiritual Cardinal John Henry Newman (1801-1890) who is now a saint!

Lead, kindly Light, amid the encircling gloom, lead Thou me on!
The night is dark, and I am far from home; lead Thou me on!
Keep Thou my feet; I do not ask to see
The distant scene; one step enough for me.

I was not ever thus, nor prayed that Thou shouldst lead me on;
I loved to choose and see my path; but now lead Thou me on!
I loved the garish day, and, spite of fears,
Pride ruled my will. Remember not past years!

So long Thy power hath blest me, sure it still will lead me on.
O’er moor and fen, o’er crag and torrent, till the night is gone,
And with the morn those angel faces smile, which I
Have loved long since, and lost awhile!

Meantime, along the narrow rugged path, Thyself hast trod,
Lead, Savior, lead me home in childlike faith, home to my God.
To rest forever after earthly strife
In the calm light of everlasting life.

As we trod the paths of loss or gloom, allow the kindly Light of Jesus Christ to restore and renew our hearts with the warmth of His love and lead us ever on…

grace, peace & Kindly Light

Virginia : )

p.s. Here’s a beautiful rendition of the song by favorite artist Audrey Assad from her “Fortunate Fall” compilation. (Email readers you know the drill, click to the Roses website to view the YouTube for a listen.)