853--I love Thy kingdom, Lord,

I love Thy kingdom, Lord,

853

	1.	I love Thy kingdom, Lord,
		The house of Thine abode,
		The Church our blest Redeemer bought
		With His own precious blood.
	2.	I love the Church, O God!
		Her walls before Thee stand,
		Dear as the apple of Thine eye
		And graven on Thy hand.
	3.	For her my tears shall fall,
		For her my prayers ascend;
		To her my cares and toils be given
		Till toils and cares shall end.
	4.	Beyond my highest joy
		I prize her heavenly ways,
		Her sweet communion, solemn vows,
		Her hymns of love and praise.
	5.	Sure as Thy truth shall last,
		To Zion shall be given
		The brightest glories earth can yield,
		And brighter bliss of heaven.